Question 1: Describe one characteristic of Baroque music that makes it different from Medieval music.

Answer: Baroque music often features ornamentation, a continuous bass line called basso continuo, and the use of contrast between loud and soft sounds.

Question 2: Identify the type of musical texture that involves a single melody accompanied by chords, which was common in Baroque compositions.

Answer: Homophonic texture.

Question 3: Explain what a basso continuo is and its role in Baroque music.

Answer: A basso continuo is a continuous bass line played by instruments like the harpsichord and cello, providing harmonic support and structure for the music.

Question 4: Listen carefully to a section of Baroque music. Is the melody likely to be repeated or varied? Explain your reasoning.

Answer: In Baroque music, melodies are often repeated with ornamentation or slight variations to create contrast and interest.

Question 5: Sketch a simple outline of a typical Baroque musical ornament, such as a trill or mordent. Label the parts clearly.

Answer: A trill involves rapidly alternating between two adjacent notes, often indicated by 'tr' in sheet music. The sketch should show two notes, with wavy lines indicating rapid alternation.

Question 6: Draw a basic musical staff with a melody line that includes a few ornamentations typical of Baroque music. Use appropriate note symbols and ornament marks.

Answer: A melody with a sequence of notes, including ornaments such as trills, mordents, or grace notes placed above or below the main notes.

Question 7: Name a famous composer from the Baroque period and one of their well-known works.

Answer: Johann Sebastian Bach; one well-known work is the Brandenburg Concertos.

Question 8: Describe how the use of dynamics in Baroque music differs from that in Classical music.

Answer: In Baroque music, dynamics were often terraced, meaning they changed suddenly rather than gradually, which became more gradual in Classical music.

Question 9: Identify the main instrument families used in Baroque music and give examples of each.

Answer: String instruments (e.g., violin), keyboard instruments (e.g., harpsichord), and woodwind instruments (e.g., recorder).

Question 10: Explain what a fugue is and how it is structured, based on your listening and reading.

Answer: A fugue is a polyphonic composition where a main theme is introduced and then developed through interweaving melodic lines called voices, often with imitation.