Question 1: Describe two common features of jazz music that became popular during the early 20th century.

Answer: Features include improvisation and syncopated rhythms.

Question 2: Listen carefully to a piece of music from the 1920s jazz era. Although you cannot hear it now, imagine the music has lively brass instruments, a steady swing rhythm, and a solo improvisation on the trumpet. What musical style does this describe?

Answer: Jazz

Question 3: Explain what is meant by the term 'atonality' and name a composer associated with this style.

Answer: Atonality is a style of music that avoids establishing a key or tonal centre. Arnold Schoenberg is a composer associated with atonality.

Question 4: Identify three characteristics of electronic music that developed during the 20th century.

Answer: Use of synthesizers, electronic sounds, and computer-generated music.

Question 5: Describe the main differences between classical music composed in the early 1900s and popular music of the same period.

Answer: Classical music was often complex and written for orchestras, while popular music was simpler, aimed at mass audiences, and often used new instruments like electric guitars.

Question 6: Sketch a simple rhythmic pattern that might be used in jazz music, including a swing feel. Label the beats as 'strong' or 'weak'.

Answer: A pattern with a syncopated rhythm where beats 1 and 3 are strong, and beats 2 and 4 are weak, with a slight delay on the 'off' beats to create swing.

Question 7: Explain what is meant by the term 'minimalism' in music and give one example of a composer associated with this style.

Answer: Minimalism is a style that uses repetitive motifs and simple harmonies. Steve Reich is a composer associated with minimalism.

Question 8: Describe how the use of technology changed music production during the 20th century.

Answer: Technology introduced electric instruments, recording equipment, synthesizers, and computer software, allowing for new sounds and easier recording and editing.

Question 9: Imagine you are listening to a piece that features sudden shifts in volume and unpredictable rhythms. What 20th-century musical style might this be, and why?

Answer: It might be experimental or avant-garde music, because it often includes unpredictable sounds and structures.

Question 10: Draw a diagram of a simple form of a 20th-century popular song structure, including sections such as verse, chorus, and bridge. Label each section clearly.

Answer: A typical structure might be: Intro – Verse – Chorus – Verse – Chorus – Bridge – Chorus – Outro. The diagram should show these sections in sequence, with space for students to sketch.

Question 11: Explain how music in the 20th century reflected social changes and new ideas.

Answer: Music reflected social changes by embracing new styles like jazz and rock, expressing freedom and rebellion, and integrating technology and diverse influences.