The History Of Music: Trivia Quiz!

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The History Of Music: Trivia Quiz! - Quiz


Questions and Answers
  • 1. 

    Another name for ABA form with an exposition, a development, and a recapitulation is ___ form

    • A.

      Rondo

    • B.

      Sonata

    • C.

      Binary

    • D.

      Theme and variations

    Correct Answer
    B. Sonata
    Explanation
    The correct answer is sonata because the ABA form with an exposition, a development, and a recapitulation is commonly referred to as sonata form. This form is commonly used in classical music compositions, particularly in sonatas. The exposition introduces the main themes, the development section explores and develops these themes further, and the recapitulation brings back the initial themes in a modified form.

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  • 2. 

    The first movement in most Classical symphonies is generally:

    • A.

      A moderate or fast movement in sonata form that sometimes has a slow introduction

    • B.

      The fastest, lightest movement

    • C.

      In minuet form and triple meter

    • D.

      A slow movement with beautiful, relaxing melodies

    Correct Answer
    A. A moderate or fast movement in sonata form that sometimes has a slow introduction
    Explanation
    The first movement in most Classical symphonies is generally a moderate or fast movement in sonata form that sometimes has a slow introduction. This is because the first movement sets the tone for the entire symphony and is typically the most substantial and complex movement. Sonata form allows for the development and contrast of musical ideas, while the inclusion of a slow introduction can create a sense of anticipation and drama before the main theme is introduced.

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  • 3. 

    The second movement in most Classical symphonies is generally:

    • A.

      In minuet form and triple meter

    • B.

      A slow movement with beautiful, relaxing melodies

    • C.

      The fastest, lightest movement

    • D.

      A moderate or fast movement in sonata form that sometimes has a slow introduction

    Correct Answer
    B. A slow movement with beautiful, relaxing melodies
    Explanation
    The second movement in most Classical symphonies is generally a slow movement with beautiful, relaxing melodies. This is because the second movement is intended to provide a contrast to the energetic and lively first movement. By slowing down the tempo and focusing on melodic beauty, composers create a peaceful and introspective atmosphere. This allows the listener to take a moment to reflect and appreciate the emotional depth of the music before moving on to the more dramatic and exciting third movement.

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  • 4. 

    The third movement in most Classical symphonies is generally:

    • A.

      A moderate or fast movement in sonata form that sometimes has a slow introduction

    • B.

      A slow movement with beautiful, relaxing melodies

    • C.

      In minuet form and triple meter

    • D.

      The fastest, lightest movement

    Correct Answer
    C. In minuet form and triple meter
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "in minuet form and triple meter." In Classical symphonies, the third movement is typically a minuet, which is a moderate tempo dance in triple meter. This movement often features a graceful and elegant melody, and it serves as a contrast to the more energetic and dramatic first and second movements. The minuet form consists of a main theme followed by a contrasting trio section, and then a return to the main theme. The use of triple meter, with its three beats per measure, gives the movement a distinct rhythmic feel.

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  • 5. 

    The last movement in most Classical symphonies is generally:

    • A.

      A slow movement with beautiful, relaxing melodies

    • B.

      In minuet form and triple meter

    • C.

      The fastest, lightest movement

    • D.

      A moderate or fast movement in sonata form that sometimes has a slow introduction

    Correct Answer
    C. The fastest, lightest movement
    Explanation
    The last movement in most Classical symphonies is typically the fastest and lightest movement. This is because the final movement is often intended to provide a lively and energetic conclusion to the symphony. It contrasts with the previous movements, which may have included slower and more melodic sections. The fast and light character of the last movement creates a sense of excitement and brings the symphony to a thrilling close.

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  • 6. 

    In the sonata form, what is repeated in the recapitulation?

    • A.

      The coda

    • B.

      The first theme followed by all the other elements of the exposition

    • C.

      Various themes from the development

    • D.

      Only the second theme and cadence theme from the exposition

    Correct Answer
    B. The first theme followed by all the other elements of the exposition
    Explanation
    In the sonata form, the recapitulation is a section where the main themes from the exposition are repeated. It typically starts with the first theme, followed by all the other elements of the exposition, such as the second theme and cadence theme. This repetition helps to bring a sense of closure and unity to the overall structure of the piece. The coda, on the other hand, is a separate section that comes after the recapitulation and serves as a conclusion or an extension of the main themes. Therefore, the correct answer is the first theme followed by all the other elements of the exposition.

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  • 7. 

    A coda:

    • A.

      Is a closing section of a movement

    • B.

      Is a crucial element of sonata form

    • C.

      Is never used in theme and variations form

    • D.

      Often appears at the beginning of a movement

    Correct Answer
    A. Is a closing section of a movement
    Explanation
    A coda is a closing section of a movement in music. It is a way to bring a sense of closure and finality to the piece. It is often used to recapitulate themes or motifs from earlier in the movement and provide a sense of resolution. While it is not exclusive to sonata form, it is commonly found in this structure. It is not used in theme and variations form, as the focus in that form is on the variation and development of a single theme.

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  • 8. 

    The first movement of Symphony No. 95 in C minor is:

    • A.

      A rondo

    • B.

      In sonata form

    • C.

      In minuet form

    • D.

      In theme and variations form

    Correct Answer
    B. In sonata form
    Explanation
    The first movement of Symphony No. 95 in C minor is in sonata form. Sonata form is a musical structure commonly used in the first movements of symphonies. It typically consists of three main sections: the exposition, development, and recapitulation. In the exposition, the main themes are introduced, often in contrasting keys. The development section explores and develops these themes further. Finally, the recapitulation brings back the main themes, usually in the original key. This form provides a sense of balance and structure to the movement, allowing for the development and resolution of musical ideas.

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  • 9. 

    Typically, the third movement of a four-movement work in the Classical era would be:

    • A.

      Slow and lyrical

    • B.

      In sonata form

    • C.

      A minuet and trio

    • D.

      In theme and variations form

    Correct Answer
    C. A minuet and trio
    Explanation
    In the Classical era, a four-movement work usually followed a specific structure. The third movement, known as the minuet and trio, would often be a dance-like piece in triple meter. This movement would provide a contrast to the previous movements and serve as a lighter and more playful interlude before the final movement. The minuet and trio form typically consisted of a minuet section followed by a contrasting trio section, creating a balanced and symmetrical structure within the overall composition.

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  • 10. 

    The favorite featured instrument of the Classical sonata was the:

    • A.

      Piano

    • B.

      Recorder

    • C.

      Organ

    • D.

      Harpsichord

    Correct Answer
    A. Piano
    Explanation
    The piano was the favorite featured instrument of the Classical sonata because it provided a wide range of dynamics and expressive possibilities. Its ability to play both softly and loudly allowed composers to create a greater sense of contrast and emotion in their compositions. Additionally, the piano's sustain pedal enabled sustained notes and chords, adding to the richness and depth of the music. Its versatility and ability to convey a wide range of emotions made it the ideal instrument for the Classical sonata.

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  • 11. 

    How many movements does a Classical sonata generally have?

    • A.

      One

    • B.

      Two

    • C.

      Three

    • D.

      Four

    Correct Answer
    C. Three
    Explanation
    A Classical sonata generally has three movements. This is a standard structure for many Classical compositions, including sonatas. Each movement has its own distinct character and musical ideas, often following a fast-slow-fast pattern. The three movements allow for a balanced and cohesive musical journey, showcasing different moods and themes throughout the piece.

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  • 12. 

    The form developed by Mozart for the first movement of a concerto is called ___ form.

    • A.

      Rondo

    • B.

      Double-exposition

    • C.

      Sonata

    • D.

      Double-development

    Correct Answer
    B. Double-exposition
    Explanation
    The correct answer is double-exposition. In the first movement of a concerto, the double-exposition form is used. This form consists of two separate expositions, one for the orchestra and one for the soloist. The orchestra presents the main themes and establishes the tonality in the first exposition, while the soloist enters in the second exposition and presents their own themes. This form allows for a dialogue between the orchestra and the soloist, showcasing their individual musical ideas.

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  • 13. 

    In the final section of the first movement of a Classical concerto, the soloist improvizes a solo passage called a:

    • A.

      Recapitulation

    • B.

      Coda

    • C.

      Ritornello

    • D.

      Cadenza

    Correct Answer
    D. Cadenza
    Explanation
    In the final section of the first movement of a Classical concerto, the soloist often has the opportunity to showcase their virtuosity and improvisational skills through a solo passage known as a cadenza. This section allows the soloist to demonstrate their technical abilities and musicality, often with elaborate and showy flourishes. The cadenza serves as a contrast to the structured and composed sections of the concerto, allowing the soloist to add their personal touch and interpretation to the music.

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  • 14. 

    A traditional musical ensemble in Indonesia is called a:

    • A.

      Symphony

    • B.

      Bopong

    • C.

      Gamelan

    • D.

      Gongan

    Correct Answer
    C. Gamelan
    Explanation
    A traditional musical ensemble in Indonesia is called a gamelan. Gamelan is a term used to describe a group of instruments, predominantly percussion, that are played together to create traditional Indonesian music. These ensembles typically consist of various types of metallophones, gongs, drums, and other instruments. The gamelan is an integral part of Indonesian culture and is often used in religious ceremonies, traditional performances, and other cultural events. The term "symphony" refers to a different type of musical ensemble, typically associated with Western classical music, and is not specific to Indonesian traditional music. Bopong and gongan are not commonly used terms in the context of Indonesian musical ensembles.

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  • 15. 

    Classical string quartets generally have ___ movements.

    • A.

      One

    • B.

      Two

    • C.

      Three

    • D.

      Four

    Correct Answer
    D. Four
    Explanation
    Classical string quartets generally have four movements. This is because the traditional structure of a string quartet consists of four distinct sections or movements, each with its own tempo, mood, and musical ideas. These movements typically include an opening movement (usually in sonata form), a slow second movement, a lively third movement (often a minuet or scherzo), and a final movement that brings the piece to a satisfying conclusion. This four-movement structure has been widely adopted by composers throughout history and is considered the standard format for string quartets.

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  • 16. 

    In the classical era the string quartet was intended to perform in:

    • A.

      Small intimate gatherings

    • B.

      Cathedrals

    • C.

      Large concert halls

    • D.

      Opera houses

    Correct Answer
    A. Small intimate gatherings
    Explanation
    The string quartet in the classical era was designed to be performed in small intimate gatherings. This was because the instrumentation of the quartet, consisting of two violins, a viola, and a cello, allowed for a balanced and nuanced sound that could be appreciated in smaller settings. Additionally, the chamber music nature of the string quartet made it more suitable for intimate performances where the audience could closely observe the musicians' interactions and intricate musical details.

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  • 17. 

    Italian comic opera was called:

    • A.

      Arioso opera

    • B.

      Ensemble opera

    • C.

      Opera buffa

    • D.

      Da capo opera

    Correct Answer
    C. Opera buffa
    Explanation
    Opera buffa is the correct answer because it refers to a genre of Italian comic opera that emerged in the 18th century. It is characterized by its humorous and light-hearted nature, often featuring comedic plots and lively music. This genre was a popular form of entertainment in Italy and played a significant role in the development of opera as an art form. The term "opera buffa" translates to "comic opera" in English, making it the most suitable choice for the given question.

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  • 18. 

    Beethoven wrote music in both the ___ and ___ styles.

    • A.

      Classical; Romantic

    • B.

      Classica; Baroque

    • C.

      Baroque; Romantic

    • D.

      Romantic; Medieval

    Correct Answer
    A. Classical; Romantic
    Explanation
    Beethoven is known for composing music in both the Classical and Romantic styles. In his early years, he composed music that followed the Classical style, characterized by balanced structures, clear melodies, and symmetrical forms. However, as he matured as a composer, he began to break away from the constraints of the Classical style and embraced the emotional and expressive elements of the Romantic era. This shift can be heard in his later works, which feature more dramatic and passionate compositions.

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  • 19. 

    What European political figure inspired Beethoven in his composing the Eroica Symphony?

    • A.

      Thomas Jefferson

    • B.

      King George of England

    • C.

      Emperor Franz Joseph II

    • D.

      Napoleon Bonaparte

    Correct Answer
    D. Napoleon Bonaparte
    Explanation
    Napoleon Bonaparte inspired Beethoven in his composing the Eroica Symphony. Beethoven initially dedicated the symphony to Napoleon as he viewed him as a champion of the ideals of the French Revolution. However, when Napoleon declared himself Emperor, Beethoven was disillusioned and removed the dedication. Nevertheless, the symphony still reflects the spirit of heroism and revolutionary fervor associated with Napoleon.

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  • 20. 

    Which genre is Beethoven most closely associated?

    • A.

      Cantata

    • B.

      Symphony

    • C.

      Opera

    • D.

      Oratorio

    Correct Answer
    B. Symphony
    Explanation
    Beethoven is most closely associated with the genre of symphony. Throughout his career, he composed a total of nine symphonies, which are considered some of the greatest and most influential works in classical music. Beethoven's symphonies, such as the iconic Symphony No. 5 and Symphony No. 9, showcased his innovative and groundbreaking approach to composition, pushing the boundaries of the symphonic form and leaving a lasting impact on the genre.

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  • 21. 

    The scherzo, a fast, triple meter movement evolved from the:

    • A.

      Minuet

    • B.

      Rondo

    • C.

      Oratorio

    • D.

      Sonata

    Correct Answer
    A. Minuet
    Explanation
    The scherzo, a fast, triple meter movement, evolved from the minuet. The minuet was a popular dance form in the Baroque period, typically characterized by a moderate tempo and a triple meter. As musical tastes evolved, composers began to write faster and more energetic versions of the minuet, which eventually led to the development of the scherzo. The scherzo retained the triple meter and lively character of the minuet but added more complex and virtuosic elements, making it a staple in many classical and romantic era compositions.

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  • 22. 

    All of the following are characteristics of Beethoven's symphonic compositional style EXCEPT:

    • A.

      Rhythmic drive

    • B.

      Motive consistency

    • C.

      Disregard for Classical Forms

    • D.

      Psychological progression during a work

    Correct Answer
    C. Disregard for Classical Forms
    Explanation
    Beethoven's symphonic compositional style is known for its rhythmic drive, motive consistency, and psychological progression during a work. However, Beethoven did not disregard classical forms in his compositions. In fact, he expanded and pushed the boundaries of classical forms, such as the symphony and sonata, while still adhering to their basic structures. Beethoven's compositions often showcased his innovative approach to form, incorporating new techniques and structures within the classical framework.

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  • 23. 

    From what condition did Beethoven suffer?

    • A.

      Paralysis

    • B.

      Deafness

    • C.

      Blindness

    • D.

      Mental illness

    Correct Answer
    B. Deafness
    Explanation
    Beethoven suffered from deafness. This is evident from historical records and personal accounts of Beethoven himself. His hearing loss began in his late twenties and progressively worsened over time. Despite this, he continued to compose music and perform, relying on his memory and feeling the vibrations of the piano. Beethoven's deafness had a profound impact on his life and music, leading him to explore new musical ideas and techniques.

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  • 24. 

    Who provided the Romantics with the ideal of the individual and was considered the ideological father of the French revolution?

    • A.

      Jean Jacques Rousseau

    • B.

      Ludwig van Beethoven

    • C.

      Franz Schubert

    • D.

      Victor Hugo

    Correct Answer
    A. Jean Jacques Rousseau
    Explanation
    Jean Jacques Rousseau is considered the ideological father of the French revolution and provided the Romantics with the ideal of the individual. His ideas on individual freedom, equality, and the importance of nature greatly influenced the Romantic movement. Rousseau's belief in the innate goodness of man and the corrupting influence of society resonated with the Romantics, who sought to celebrate the individual's emotions, imagination, and connection with nature. His writings, such as "The Social Contract" and "Emile," inspired many Romantic artists and thinkers and shaped their views on individualism and revolution.

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  • 25. 

    Which is true of Romantic composers such as Beethoven, Liszt, and Verdi?

    • A.

      They avoided all involvement in political and social revolution, feeling that music transcended politics

    • B.

      People used their music to promote revolutionary movements, but the composers did not associate themselves with such movements

    • C.

      They wanted to promote emotional expression without disrupting the established social order

    • D.

      As rebels against the social order, they associated themselves with revolutionary and libertarian politics

    Correct Answer
    D. As rebels against the social order, they associated themselves with revolutionary and libertarian politics
  • 26. 

    Increasingly, the focal point for the performance of Romantic music was the

    • A.

      Court

    • B.

      Concert hall

    • C.

      Church

    • D.

      Chamber music salon

    Correct Answer
    B. Concert hall
    Explanation
    During the Romantic era, music shifted away from being exclusively performed in the court or church settings and started to find its home in the concert hall. This change was driven by the growing popularity of public concerts and the rise of the middle class as patrons of music. The concert hall provided a larger and more accessible space for performances, allowing composers to reach a wider audience and showcase their works on a grander scale. The concert hall became the focal point for the performance of Romantic music, embodying the spirit of the era's emotional and expressive compositions.

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  • 27. 

    The musical term applied to flexibility in rhythm is:

    • A.

      Rubato

    • B.

      Rallentando

    • C.

      Ritardando

    • D.

      Accelerando

    Correct Answer
    A. Rubato
    Explanation
    Rubato is the correct answer because it refers to the flexibility in rhythm. It allows the performer to slightly speed up or slow down the tempo to add expressiveness and emotion to the music. This technique is often used in romantic and expressive pieces, giving the performer freedom to interpret the music and create a more personal and dynamic performance.

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  • 28. 

    Compared to the Classical orchestra the typical Romantic orchestra was:

    • A.

      Smaller but had new stringed instruments

    • B.

      Larger, adding instruments such as the piano to the continuo section

    • C.

      Larger but had fewer different kinds of instruments

    • D.

      Larger and blended tone colors in new ways

    Correct Answer
    D. Larger and blended tone colors in new ways
    Explanation
    The typical Romantic orchestra was larger and blended tone colors in new ways. During the Romantic period, composers sought to create rich and expressive sounds by expanding the size of the orchestra and introducing new instruments. This allowed for a greater range of dynamics and textures, as well as the blending of different instrumental timbres to create unique and colorful combinations. This departure from the Classical orchestra's smaller size and more standardized instrumentation was a hallmark of the Romantic era's musical style.

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  • 29. 

    The important new member of the Romantic orchestra was the:

    • A.

      Continuo player

    • B.

      Conductor

    • C.

      Concertmaster

    • D.

      Moderator

    Correct Answer
    B. Conductor
    Explanation
    In the context of the Romantic orchestra, the conductor emerged as an important new member. The conductor's role is to lead and direct the orchestra, ensuring that all musicians play together and interpret the music according to the composer's intentions. During the Romantic period, orchestras grew in size and complexity, requiring a central figure to coordinate the various sections and bring out the desired emotions in the music. The conductor's ability to shape the dynamics, tempo, and overall interpretation of the music became crucial in capturing the expressive and dramatic qualities characteristic of Romantic music.

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  • 30. 

    Music without singing but derived from a poem, story, or other literary source is called:

    • A.

      Program music

    • B.

      A romantic symphony

    • C.

      Thematic transformation

    • D.

      Gesamtkunstwerk

    Correct Answer
    A. Program music
    Explanation
    Program music refers to instrumental music that is composed with the intention of depicting or representing a specific story, poem, or literary source. Unlike other forms of instrumental music, program music aims to convey emotions, images, or narrative elements through purely musical means. It often uses various musical techniques such as leitmotifs, descriptive titles, or specific compositional structures to evoke the intended literary source. Therefore, program music is the correct answer because it accurately describes music that is derived from a poem, story, or other literary source without any singing involved.

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  • 31. 

    Who was not a romantic composer?

    • A.

      Roberet Schumann

    • B.

      Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

    • C.

      Franz Schubert

    • D.

      Frederic Chopin

    Correct Answer
    B. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
    Explanation
    Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was not a romantic composer. Although he lived during the transition period between the Classical and Romantic eras, his music is considered to be more representative of the Classical style. Mozart's compositions were characterized by clarity, balance, and elegance, which are typical of the Classical period. In contrast, Romantic composers like Schumann, Schubert, and Chopin embraced emotional expression, individualism, and unconventional musical forms, which are the hallmarks of the Romantic era.

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  • 32. 

    The lied is a type of:

    • A.

      Opera aria

    • B.

      Concert overture

    • C.

      Grandoise Romantic composition

    • D.

      Miniature Romantic composition

    Correct Answer
    D. Miniature Romantic composition
    Explanation
    A lied is a type of miniature Romantic composition. Lied is a German term meaning "song," and it refers to a genre of art song that emerged during the Romantic period. Lieder are typically composed for solo voice and piano accompaniment, and they often express emotions and depict scenes from nature or everyday life. They are characterized by their brevity and intimate nature, focusing on the expression of the text through the music. Therefore, the term "miniature Romantic composition" accurately describes a lied.

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  • 33. 

    The 19th century German genre consisting of a musical setting of a short poem for voice and piano is the:

    • A.

      Lied

    • B.

      Song cycle

    • C.

      Concert overture

    • D.

      Character piece

    Correct Answer
    A. Lied
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "lied." A lied is a 19th-century German genre that consists of a musical setting of a short poem for voice and piano. It is typically performed as a solo vocal piece accompanied by piano. The term "lied" is derived from the German word for "song," and it became a popular form of art song during the Romantic period in Germany. Lieder often express emotions and tell a story through the combination of poetry and music, making them an important part of German musical culture.

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  • 34. 

    A song cycle is a:

    • A.

      Form used in multimovement lieder where the same theme comes back in each movement

    • B.

      Group of songs with a common poetic them or unifying story

    • C.

      Art songs in German with several verses of poetry

    • D.

      Group of four or more operas all unified by the same characters

    Correct Answer
    D. Group of four or more operas all unified by the same characters
    Explanation
    A song cycle is a group of four or more operas all unified by the same characters.

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  • 35. 

    In the 19th century what instrument was the most likely to be composed for and played as a solo instrument?

    • A.

      Organ

    • B.

      Piano

    • C.

      Violin

    • D.

      Voice

    Correct Answer
    B. Piano
    Explanation
    In the 19th century, the piano was the most likely instrument to be composed for and played as a solo instrument. The piano's versatility, range, and expressive capabilities made it a popular choice for composers to showcase their musical ideas. Its ability to produce both melody and accompaniment allowed for a full and rich sound, making it suitable for solo performances. Additionally, advancements in piano technology during this time, such as the development of the iron frame and improved action, further enhanced its popularity as a solo instrument.

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  • 36. 

    Dichterliebe is a

    • A.

      Song cycle

    • B.

      Lied

    • C.

      Program symphony

    • D.

      Character piece for piano

    Correct Answer
    A. Song cycle
    Explanation
    Dichterliebe is a song cycle, which means it is a collection of songs that are meant to be performed together as a cohesive work. Each song in the cycle is usually based on a common theme or narrative, creating a unified musical experience. In the case of Dichterliebe, it is a song cycle composed by Robert Schumann, consisting of 16 songs that set poetry by Heinrich Heine to music. The songs are performed in a specific order, telling a story or exploring a particular emotional journey.

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  • 37. 

    A character piece is a

    • A.

      Miniature composition for orchestra

    • B.

      Miniature composition for piano

    • C.

      Composition for voice and piano

    • D.

      Grandoise composition for piano

    Correct Answer
    B. Miniature composition for piano
    Explanation
    A character piece is a miniature composition for piano. This type of composition is typically short and focuses on expressing a specific mood, emotion, or character through music. Character pieces often showcase the technical and expressive capabilities of the piano, making them a popular choice for pianists to showcase their skills. These compositions can range in style and form, but they are generally concise and intimate in nature, allowing the pianist to convey a specific musical idea or story in a compact format.

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  • 38. 

    Which is true of program music?

    • A.

      It refers to some non musical idea such as a poetic or literary work

    • B.

      It attempts to convey dramatic polarity in sonata form

    • C.

      It relies on abstract musical elements for form

    • D.

      It includes a sung text

    Correct Answer
    A. It refers to some non musical idea such as a poetic or literary work
    Explanation
    Program music is a genre of music that is composed with the intention of representing or depicting a non-musical idea, such as a poem or a literary work. Unlike absolute music, which focuses solely on the abstract musical elements, program music aims to convey a specific narrative or story through the use of musical techniques and motifs. This allows the listener to connect the music with the non-musical idea or concept that it is representing.

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  • 39. 

    A program symphony is a(n):

    • A.

      Through composed symphony in which there is no recurrence of thematic material

    • B.

      Romantic symphony that is based on a program

    • C.

      Orchestral concert for which a list of the works to be performed is handed out to the audience

    • D.

      Work for an instrumental soloist that is based on a program

    Correct Answer
    B. Romantic symphony that is based on a program
    Explanation
    A program symphony is a romantic symphony that is based on a program. This means that the symphony is composed with a specific narrative or story in mind, and the music is intended to depict or represent different aspects of that program. Unlike a through-composed symphony where there is no recurrence of thematic material, a program symphony follows a predetermined program or storyline, allowing the listener to follow along with the music and connect it to the intended narrative.

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  • 40. 

    Program symphonies are in the category of:

    • A.

      Grandoise compositions

    • B.

      Miniature compositions

    • C.

      Orchestral cycles

    • D.

      Gesamtkunstwerk

    Correct Answer
    A. Grandoise compositions
    Explanation
    Program symphonies are considered to be grandiose compositions because they are large-scale works that often depict a specific narrative or program. They typically involve a full orchestra and can be quite lengthy and complex in nature. These symphonies often aim to evoke powerful emotions and tell a story through their music, making them grand and ambitious in their scope and artistic vision.

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  • 41. 

    Which statement is FALSE?

    • A.

      Romantic opera flourished only in Germany and Italy

    • B.

      The Romantic era was a golden age of opera

    • C.

      Many Romantic operas transcended artistic barriers

    • D.

      Romantic composers came to view opera as a type of serious drama in music, not just a vehicle for song, spectacle and entertainment

    Correct Answer
    A. Romantic opera flourished only in Germany and Italy
    Explanation
    During the Romantic era, opera flourished not only in Germany and Italy but also in other countries. Therefore, the statement "Romantic opera flourished only in Germany and Italy" is false.

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  • 42. 

    A style of opera developed by early Italian Romantic composers was called

    • A.

      Canzona

    • B.

      Rubato

    • C.

      Da capo aria

    • D.

      Bel canto

    Correct Answer
    D. Bel canto
    Explanation
    Bel canto is the correct answer because it refers to a style of opera that emerged during the early Romantic period in Italy. This style is characterized by beautiful and expressive singing, with a focus on the vocal technique and the ability of the singer to convey emotions through their voice. Bel canto operas often feature elaborate ornamentation and virtuosic vocal displays. The term "bel canto" translates to "beautiful singing" in Italian, highlighting the importance of the vocal performance in this style of opera.

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  • 43. 

    Aida was commissioned for:

    • A.

      The opening of the Panama Canal

    • B.

      A new opera house in Cairo

    • C.

      The birthday of Vittorio Emmanuele

    • D.

      The Italian Liberation Movement

    Correct Answer
    B. A new opera house in Cairo
    Explanation
    Aida was commissioned for a new opera house in Cairo. This means that the opera Aida was specifically created and performed for the inauguration or opening of a newly built opera house in Cairo. The commissioning of a new opera house suggests that Aida was intended to be a grand and significant production, showcasing the capabilities of the new venue and attracting a large audience.

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  • 44. 

    Which term refers to a synthesis of many of the arts into one unified work or "total work of art"?

    • A.

      Bel canto

    • B.

      Music drama

    • C.

      Gesamtkunstwerk

    • D.

      Leitmotiv

    Correct Answer
    C. Gesamtkunstwerk
    Explanation
    Gesamtkunstwerk refers to a synthesis of many of the arts into one unified work or "total work of art". It is a German term coined by Richard Wagner, a composer known for his operas, particularly his four-opera cycle, "The Ring of the Nibelung". Wagner aimed to create a complete artistic experience by combining music, drama, poetry, visual arts, and stage design into one cohesive production. This concept of Gesamtkunstwerk revolutionized opera and influenced various art forms, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive and immersive artistic experience.

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  • 45. 

    Which allows a composer to show what a character is thinking even though something else is being said in the text?

    • A.

      Leitmotiv

    • B.

      Bel canto style

    • C.

      Idee fixe

    • D.

      Gesamtkunstwerk

    Correct Answer
    A. Leitmotiv
    Explanation
    A leitmotiv is a recurring musical theme or motif that is associated with a particular character, idea, or emotion in a musical composition. It allows a composer to express the inner thoughts and feelings of a character through music, even if the character is saying something different in the text. By using a leitmotiv, the composer can create a deeper layer of meaning and convey the character's true intentions or emotions to the audience.

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  • 46. 

    Leitmotivs are developed by means of:

    • A.

      Imitative polyphony

    • B.

      Ornamentation in the last section of a da capo aria

    • C.

      Thematic transformation

    • D.

      Theme and variation form

    Correct Answer
    C. Thematic transformation
    Explanation
    Thematic transformation refers to the development of a musical theme by altering its melodic, harmonic, or rhythmic elements while still retaining its recognizable identity. This technique allows composers to explore different variations and interpretations of a theme throughout a piece of music. It is often used to create unity and coherence in a composition, as well as to convey emotional or narrative ideas.

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  • 47. 

    An orchestral work composed in one movement with a free form and with a program is called a:

    • A.

      Symphonic poem

    • B.

      Program symphony

    • C.

      Concert overture

    • D.

      Romantic symphony

    Correct Answer
    A. Symphonic poem
    Explanation
    A symphonic poem is an orchestral work composed in one movement with a free form and with a program. It is a type of composition that aims to tell a story or depict a specific idea or emotion. Unlike a program symphony, which is a multi-movement work, or a concert overture, which is a standalone piece often played at the beginning of a concert, a symphonic poem is a single, continuous piece that allows for a more flexible structure and narrative. Therefore, the correct answer for this question is symphonic poem.

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  • 48. 

    Romeo and Juliet is a ___ but the composer called it a ___

    • A.

      Overture to a ballet; symphonic poem

    • B.

      Symphonic poem; overture fantasy

    • C.

      Concert overture; overture fantasy

    • D.

      Program symphony; symphonic poem

    Correct Answer
    B. Symphonic poem; overture fantasy
    Explanation
    The correct answer is symphonic poem; overture fantasy. In this question, the composer of Romeo and Juliet called it a symphonic poem, but it is actually classified as an overture fantasy.

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  • 49. 

    What is the characteristic of all nationalistic music?

    • A.

      The use of religious subject matter

    • B.

      The use of folk music of each country

    • C.

      The use of major and minor modes

    • D.

      The use of dissonant harmonies

    Correct Answer
    B. The use of folk music of each country
    Explanation
    The characteristic of all nationalistic music is the use of folk music of each country. Nationalistic music aims to celebrate and promote the cultural identity and heritage of a specific nation. By incorporating elements of traditional folk music, composers create a distinct sound that represents the unique musical traditions of their country. This helps to evoke a sense of national pride and unity among listeners, as they can connect with familiar melodies and rhythms that are deeply rooted in their cultural heritage.

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  • 50. 

    The opera Carmen, written by the French Composer Bizet and set in Spain is an example of

    • A.

      Political music

    • B.

      Nationalism in music

    • C.

      Exoticism in music

    • D.

      The blending and erasing of the unique qualities of nations

    Correct Answer
    C. Exoticism in music
    Explanation
    The correct answer is exoticism in music. The opera Carmen, written by Bizet, is set in Spain but composed by a French composer. It incorporates elements of Spanish culture and music, creating a sense of exoticism. Exoticism in music refers to the use of foreign or non-Western elements to create a sense of intrigue and fascination. In Carmen, Bizet uses Spanish melodies, rhythms, and dance forms to portray the exoticism of Spain.

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Quiz Review Timeline +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Jan 17, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Dec 14, 2010
    Quiz Created by
    Nikolaic
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