How Well You Know Henry Purcell? Quiz

1. At which famous London cathedral did Purcell work as an organist and composer?

St. Paul's

St. Mark's

Westminster Abbey

Purcell worked as an organist and composer at Westminster Abbey.

Explanation

Purcell worked as an organist and composer at Westminster Abbey.

2. At what age did Purcell die?

54

36

28

Purcell died at the age of 36.

Explanation

Purcell died at the age of 36.

3. Which national styles inspired Purcell to write Dido and Aeneas?

German and Italian

French and Italian

Spanish and Italian

Purcell was inspired by both French and Italian national styles when writing Dido and Aeneas. This can be seen in the opera's composition, which combines elements from both traditions. The French influence can be heard in the use of dance rhythms and the incorporation of French opera conventions, while the Italian influence is evident in the melodic and dramatic aspects of the music. Overall, the combination of these two national styles contributes to the unique and rich musical language of Dido and Aeneas.

Explanation

Purcell was inspired by both French and Italian national styles when writing Dido and Aeneas. This can be seen in the opera's composition, which combines elements from both traditions. The French influence can be heard in the use of dance rhythms and the incorporation of French opera conventions, while the Italian influence is evident in the melodic and dramatic aspects of the music. Overall, the combination of these two national styles contributes to the unique and rich musical language of Dido and Aeneas.

4. Which term is applied to English theater works such as King Arthur for which Purcell supplied music?

Opera

Pseudo-opera

Semi-opera

Semi-opera is the correct term for English theater works like King Arthur, where Purcell provided the music. In semi-operas, the storyline is primarily spoken, with occasional musical interludes and songs. This genre was popular during the Restoration period in England and combined elements of spoken drama and opera. Purcell's music in King Arthur enhances the dramatic elements of the play and adds emotional depth to the storytelling.

Explanation

Semi-opera is the correct term for English theater works like King Arthur, where Purcell provided the music. In semi-operas, the storyline is primarily spoken, with occasional musical interludes and songs. This genre was popular during the Restoration period in England and combined elements of spoken drama and opera. Purcell's music in King Arthur enhances the dramatic elements of the play and adds emotional depth to the storytelling.

5. Purcell is thought of as one of the great English composers of music for the theater. How many operas did he write?

1

14

36

Purcell is considered one of the great English composers of music for the theater, but he only wrote one opera. This suggests that while he may have been highly regarded for his work in theater music, his focus or interest may have been more centered on other types of compositions or genres within the realm of music.

Explanation

Purcell is considered one of the great English composers of music for the theater, but he only wrote one opera. This suggests that while he may have been highly regarded for his work in theater music, his focus or interest may have been more centered on other types of compositions or genres within the realm of music.

6. What is the most notable collection of Purcell's songs to be published?

Orpheus Britannicus

Dioclesian

Dido and Aeneas

Orpheus Britannicus is the most notable collection of Purcell's songs to be published. This collection, compiled and edited by Henry Playford, was first published in 1698, two years after Purcell's death. It contains a selection of Purcell's vocal music, including songs, duets, and instrumental pieces. Orpheus Britannicus is considered significant because it showcases the range and depth of Purcell's compositions, and it played a crucial role in establishing his reputation as one of the greatest English composers of his time.

Explanation

Orpheus Britannicus is the most notable collection of Purcell's songs to be published. This collection, compiled and edited by Henry Playford, was first published in 1698, two years after Purcell's death. It contains a selection of Purcell's vocal music, including songs, duets, and instrumental pieces. Orpheus Britannicus is considered significant because it showcases the range and depth of Purcell's compositions, and it played a crucial role in establishing his reputation as one of the greatest English composers of his time.