Question 1: Describe the main characteristics of jazz music that made it popular in the early 20th century.

Answer: Jazz is characterized by syncopated rhythms, improvisation, a lively swing feel, and the use of instruments like trumpets, saxophones, and pianos.

Question 2: Name three popular music genres that emerged in the 1950s and briefly explain what made each unique.

Answer: Rock and roll: energetic rhythm, electric guitars; Doo-wop: vocal harmonies with minimal instrumentation; Blues: expressive melodies, use of blue notes.

Question 3: Identify the typical features of a 1960s British Invasion song, such as those performed by bands like The Beatles.

Answer: Features include catchy melodies, harmony vocals, simple chord progressions, and prominent electric guitar riffs.

Question 4: Explain what a ‘hook’ is in popular music and give an example of how it might be used in a song.

Answer: A hook is a memorable musical phrase or chorus that grabs the listener’s attention and is repeated throughout the song.

Question 5: Listen carefully to a piece of 1980s pop music and describe the typical production features you might hear.

Answer: Loud drum beats, use of synthesizers, electronic effects, catchy melodies, and a strong chorus.

Question 6: Draw a simple musical staff with four notes that could form a catchy, repetitive tune suitable for a pop song. Label the notes as 'C', 'D', 'E', and 'F'.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a staff with four evenly spaced notes; notes could be arranged in a simple sequence like C-D-E-F or F-E-D-C.

Question 7: Identify the main difference between a major and a minor scale.

Answer: A major scale sounds happy and bright, with a specific pattern of whole and half steps; a minor scale sounds sad or somber, with a different pattern of intervals.

Question 8: Describe how the use of electronic instruments changed popular music from the 1970s onwards.

Answer: Electronic instruments like synthesizers and drum machines allowed for new sounds, more experimentation, and the ability to produce music with different textures and effects.

Question 9: Explain the significance of the ‘disco’ genre in the 1970s and describe its typical musical features.

Answer: Disco was popular for danceability, with a steady four-on-the-floor beat, lush string arrangements, funky basslines, and catchy chorus hooks.

Question 10: Identify three instruments commonly used in rock bands and describe their roles.

Answer: Electric guitar: provides riffs and solos; bass guitar: creates the rhythm and harmony foundation; drums: keep the beat and add energy.