Question 1: Describe two musical characteristics that are typical of Baroque music. Provide examples of how these features might sound.

Answer: Common characteristics of Baroque music include the use of ornamentation (like trills and mordents) and a basso continuo providing a continuous bass line. These features give the music a decorative and rhythmic driving quality.

Question 2: Identify the instrument family most commonly used for the basso continuo in Baroque music.

Answer: String instrument family, typically including harpsichords, organ, or lute.

Question 3: Listen carefully to a piece of Baroque music. Describe the typical structure you might expect to hear in such compositions.

Answer: Baroque compositions often follow structures like binary or ternary form, with repeated sections, and may include a series of contrasting sections or movements.

Question 4: Explain what is meant by the term 'ornamentation' in Baroque music, and give an example of a musical ornament.

Answer: Ornamentation refers to decorative notes added to the main melody to embellish it. An example is a trill, which rapidly alternates between two adjacent notes.

Question 5: Sketch a simple melodic line that includes ornamentation typical of Baroque music. Label the ornamentations used.

Answer: A melodic line with a main note, followed by a quick trill or mordent on that note. The sketch should indicate the main pitch and the decorative embellishments.

Question 6: Identify one famous composer from the Baroque era and mention one of their well-known works.

Answer: Johann Sebastian Bach; well-known work: The Well-Tempered Clavier.

Question 7: Describe the role of the harpsichord in Baroque music compositions.

Answer: The harpsichord often played the basso continuo part, providing harmonic support and a continuous bass line for the ensemble.

Question 8: Explain the concept of 'basso continuo' and how it supports Baroque music.

Answer: Basso continuo is a continuous bass line played by keyboard or lute instruments, often with a bass instrument like a cello, providing harmonic foundation throughout the piece.

Question 9: List three instruments commonly used in a Baroque orchestra.

Answer: Violin, harpsichord, flute, and cello are common instruments used in Baroque orchestras.

Question 10: Imagine you are listening to a piece of Baroque music. How might the rhythm feel compared to modern music? Explain your answer.

Answer: The rhythm in Baroque music is often more regular and structured, with a steady beat, but it may also include rhythmic embellishments like dotted rhythms, giving a sense of drive and energy.