Question 1: Describe the main characteristics of Baroque music, particularly in terms of melody, harmony, and rhythm.

Answer: Baroque music features elaborate and ornate melodies, continuous bass lines known as basso continuo, and a strong use of contrast in dynamics and texture. Rhythms are often energetic and repetitive, with a clear sense of movement.

Question 2: Identify three instruments commonly used in a Classical orchestra and describe their roles.

Answer: The violin provides melody and high-pitched tunes; the cello offers melodic support and bass lines; the flute adds melodic and harmonic color. All contribute to the balanced and transparent sound characteristic of Classical orchestras.

Question 3: Listen to a piece of music from the Romantic period and describe how it differs from Classical period music in terms of emotional expression.

Answer: Romantic music tends to be more expressive, with richer harmonies, broader dynamic ranges, and more expressive melodies. It often conveys intense emotion and personal expression, contrasting with the clarity and balance of Classical music.

Question 4: Explain what a 'sonata form' is and identify its three main sections.

Answer: Sonata form is a musical structure used in many Classical compositions. Its three main sections are the exposition (introduces themes), the development (explores and transforms themes), and the recapitulation (returns to the original themes with variation).

Question 5: Describe the typical texture of a Baroque fugue.

Answer: A Baroque fugue has a polyphonic texture, where a main theme (subject) is introduced and then developed through interweaving voices that imitate each other, creating a complex and layered sound.

Question 6: Sketch a simple musical staff with four notes: a G, an A, a B, and a C, placed on the appropriate lines and spaces. Label each note with its letter name.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a standard five-line staff, with the notes placed on the correct lines/spaces corresponding to G (second line from bottom), A (second space), B (third line), and C (third space). Each note should be a correctly shaped note head.

Question 7: Compare the use of dynamics in Classical and Romantic music. Provide an example of how dynamics are used to create mood.

Answer: Classical music generally uses moderate dynamics with gradual changes, while Romantic music employs wide dynamic ranges with sudden shifts (crescendo and decrescendo) to evoke strong emotions. For example, a sudden forte can create excitement or tension.

Question 8: Identify and explain the significance of the composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in classical music history.

Answer: Mozart was a prolific and influential composer of the Classical period, known for his mastery of melody, harmony, and form. His works, such as symphonies, operas, and sonatas, exemplify the clarity and balance of Classical music.

Question 9: List two features that distinguish Romantic-era music from earlier periods.

Answer: Features include expressive melodies that convey emotion and the use of chromaticism to add tension and color. Additionally, there is often a larger orchestra and more dramatic contrasts.

Question 10: Explain what a 'recitative' is in opera, and how it differs from an 'aria'.

Answer: Recitative is a speech-like singing style that advances the plot quickly, with free rhythm and minimal melodic repetition. An aria is a lyrical, melodic piece that expresses a character’s emotions and is more structured and expressive.