Question 1: Describe the typical instruments used in traditional West African drumming ensembles.

Answer: Instruments commonly include the djembe drum, talking drum, and bell. These instruments are often played together to produce complex rhythmic patterns.

Question 2: Listen carefully and identify the main rhythmic pattern used in a traditional Indian tabla piece. Describe the pattern's structure (e.g., number of beats per cycle).

Answer: The main rhythmic cycle, called a tala, often has 16 beats arranged in four groups of four. The pattern includes specific accents and finger strokes that define the cycle.

Question 3: Compare the use of melody in traditional Japanese Gagaku music with that in African singing styles. Focus on differences in pitch and ornamentation.

Answer: Japanese Gagaku features slow, sustained melodies with minimal ornamentation and pentatonic scales. African singing often involves call-and-response, improvisation, and lively, ornamented melodies using various scales.

Question 4: Explain what is meant by 'polyrhythm' and give an example of how it might be used in African music.

Answer: Polyrhythm is the simultaneous use of two or more contrasting rhythmic patterns. For example, one rhythm might have a pattern of three beats, while another has two, played together to create a complex texture.

Question 5: Draw a simple sketch of a traditional Indonesian gamelan orchestra, indicating at least three different types of instruments you might find in it.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a variety of metallophones (such as the saron), gongs, and a set of drums or drums-like instruments, arranged in a semi-circle or ensemble formation.

Question 6: Identify and describe the role of the voice in Chinese Peking opera music.

Answer: The voice in Peking opera is highly stylized, used for singing, acting, and conveying emotion. Singers use specific vocal techniques to imitate characters and express dramatic moments.

Question 7: What is the significance of the pentatonic scale in many traditional Asian music forms? Provide an example of a scale pattern.

Answer: The pentatonic scale uses five notes per octave, creating a simple, harmonious sound often associated with traditional Asian music. An example is the scale that includes the notes C, D, E, G, A.

Question 8: Listen to a description of a Middle Eastern music ensemble that features a ney flute, a oud (lute), and hand percussion. What are the typical characteristics of their musical style?

Answer: The music often features intricate melodies played on the ney and oud, with complex rhythms and improvisation. It uses modal scales and ornamented melodic lines to create expressive music.

Question 9: Sketch a diagram of a typical African talking drum, indicating how it is played and how it can change pitch.

Answer: A correct sketch would show an hourglass-shaped drum with cords that are tightened or loosened to alter tension, and hand placement. The player presses or releases cords to change the pitch during playing.

Question 10: Describe the cultural importance of music in Indigenous Australian communities.

Answer: Music plays a vital role in storytelling, ceremonies, and maintaining cultural traditions. It often involves singing, clapping, and the use of traditional instruments to pass on knowledge and history.

Question 11: Identify three differences between Western classical music and traditional Balkan folk music based on listening examples.

Answer: Balkan folk music often features irregular time signatures (like 7/8 or 9/8), improvisation and ornamentation, and a focus on dance rhythms. Western classical music tends to have regular time signatures, written notation, and more structured compositions.