Question 1: Identify the typical musical texture often found in Classical symphonies. Is it mainly monophonic, homophonic, or polyphonic?

Answer: Homophonic, characterized by a clear melody supported by accompanying harmony.

Question 2: Describe one common feature of melodies composed during the Classical period.

Answer: Melodies in the Classical period are often balanced, symmetrical, and tend to follow clear phrase structures.

Question 3: Listen carefully to a passage and determine whether it is written in a major or minor key. Explain your reasoning.

Answer: The piece is in a major key if the overall sound is bright and happy, often ending on the tonic chord with a consonant cadence. It is in a minor key if it sounds sad or somber, with characteristic accidentals or a lowered third scale degree.

Question 4: Name the typical form structure that composers like Mozart and Haydn often used in their symphonies and sonatas.

Answer: Sonata form, which includes an exposition, development, and recapitulation.

Question 5: Explain what a 'sequence' is in classical music and give a brief example of how it might be used in a melody.

Answer: A sequence is the repetition of a motif or phrase at a higher or lower pitch. For example, a melody might repeat a motif starting a fifth higher than the original.

Question 6: Describe the role of the orchestra in a Classical symphony, naming at least three different sections or instruments commonly involved.

Answer: The orchestra provides the instrumental sound palette, typically including strings (violins, cellos), woodwind instruments (flutes, clarinets), and brass (horns, trumpets). Each section contributes different timbres and supports the overall musical texture.

Question 7: Draw a simple musical staff with a major scale ascending from C to C. Label the notes and indicate the key signature for C major.

Answer: A staff with notes C D E F G A B C on the ascending scale, with no sharps or flats in the key signature, indicating C major.

Question 8: In terms of dynamics, what is a common feature in Classical music that helps shape the phrase?

Answer: Use of crescendo and decrescendo to gradually increase or decrease volume, creating expressive phrase shaping.

Question 9: Identify and describe the difference between a 'theme' and a 'motif' in classical music.

Answer: A 'motif' is a short, distinctive musical idea, while a 'theme' is a longer, more developed musical idea that can be the basis for a movement or piece.

Question 10: Explain the significance of the 'piano' and 'forte' dynamic markings in Classical compositions.

Answer: ‘Piano’ indicates to play softly, and ‘Forte’ indicates to play loudly; these markings help musicians interpret the expressive intentions of the composer.