Question 1: Describe how the use of ornamentation, such as trills and mordents, is characteristic of Baroque music. Provide an example of how these might be performed in a piece.

Answer: In Baroque music, ornamentation involves adding decorative notes like trills and mordents to embellish the melody. These are performed quickly and smoothly, often to express emotion or highlight important notes. For example, a trill might alternate rapidly between the main note and the note above it, adding flourish.

Question 2: Identify and explain the role of basso continuo in Baroque compositions. How does it support the harmony?

Answer: Basso continuo provides the harmonic foundation by playing a continuous bass line, usually with a keyboard instrument like a harpsichord and a bass instrument such as a cello. It supports the harmony by outlining chords and allowing other instruments or voices to build the melody above it.

Question 3: Listen carefully to a piece of Baroque music and describe the typical pattern of its rhythmic structure. How does this pattern contribute to the overall feel of the music?

Answer: Baroque music often features a regular, repeating rhythmic pattern called a 'dance rhythm' or 'motif,' with a steady beat and consistent tempo. This regularity creates a sense of order and drive, making the music energetic and lively.

Question 4: Explain the concept of a 'terraced dynamics' in Baroque music. How would this be performed during a performance?

Answer: Terraced dynamics involve sudden shifts between loud and soft volumes rather than gradual changes. During a performance, musicians would quickly switch from a loud passage to a soft one, creating stark contrasts in sound.

Question 5: Describe the typical structure of a Baroque fugue. What are the key features that distinguish it from other musical forms?

Answer: A Baroque fugue is a polyphonic composition where a main theme (subject) is introduced at the beginning and then developed through interweaving voices. Key features include the exposition, where all voices state the subject, and subsequent entries, with episodes and sequences that develop the material. It is characterized by imitation and complex contrapuntal texture.

Question 6: Draw a simple schematic of a Baroque melody that uses sequence. Indicate the starting note and how the motif repeats at a higher pitch.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a melody starting on a specific note, then a second phrase that repeats the same pattern but begins on a higher pitch, illustrating the concept of sequence. The melody would be simple, with clear intervals, showing the repetition at a different pitch level.

Question 7: Identify three instruments commonly used in Baroque ensembles and describe the role each played in a typical performance.

Answer: Common instruments include the harpsichord (provides continuo and harmonic support), the violin (melodic lines and embellishments), and the flute or recorder (melodic and decorative parts). Each instrument contributed to the rich texture of Baroque music.

Question 8: Listen to a passage of Baroque music and identify whether the texture is primarily monophonic, homophonic, or polyphonic. Justify your answer.

Answer: The answer depends on the passage: monophonic means a single melodic line without accompaniment; homophonic involves a clear melody with accompaniment; polyphonic involves multiple independent melodies interwoven. Justification should refer to the number and independence of lines heard.

Question 9: Sketch a simple example of a basso continuo part for a C major chord progression. Indicate the bass notes and suggest how the keyboard might realize the harmony.

Answer: A correct sketch would show bass notes C, D, E, F, G, A, B, C in sequence or pattern, with suggested chord symbols (C, F, G) above. The keyboard realization would include playing the root and other chord tones, often with an arpeggiated or block chord pattern, supporting the bass line.

Question 10: Explain how the use of contrast between loud and soft passages in Baroque music enhances the expressive quality of compositions.

Answer: Contrast between loud and soft passages, known as terraced dynamics, creates drama and emphasizes emotional shifts in the music. It draws the listener’s attention to important moments and adds variety, making the music more engaging.