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

Answer: Classical music features clear and balanced melodies, simple and harmonious chord progressions, and regular rhythmic patterns with an emphasis on clarity and structure.

Question 2: Name two famous composers from the Classical period and one of their well-known works.

Answer: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - 'Symphony No.40'; Franz Joseph Haydn - 'The Creation'.

Question 3: Listen carefully to a passage of music from the Classical period. Describe how the melody is structured and how it develops.

Answer: The melody is balanced and symmetrical, often with clear phrases. It develops by repetition and slight variation, maintaining a sense of order and clarity.

Question 4: Explain the role of the orchestra during the Classical period. Which instruments are typically prominent?

Answer: The orchestra was used to create balanced textures, with strings, woodwinds, and horns often playing prominent roles. The orchestra aimed for clarity and transparency in sound.

Question 5: Draw a simple ternary (A-B-A) form structure and label the sections.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a large section labeled 'A' (exposition), a contrasting section labeled 'B' (middle), and then a return to section 'A' (recap), with arrows indicating the flow.

Question 6: Identify and describe the typical tempo marking in Classical symphonies and sonatas.

Answer: The tempo markings are usually moderate, such as 'Andante' or 'Allegro,' indicating a walking pace or lively speed.

Question 7: How does the use of dynamics in Classical music differ from that in Baroque music?

Answer: Classical music uses more varied and sudden dynamic changes (like crescendo and decrescendo), aiming for expressive contrast, whereas Baroque music often had more gradual or less frequent dynamic shifts.

Question 8: Describe the typical structure of a Classical symphony movement.

Answer: A typical movement often follows a sonata form with an exposition, development, and recapitulation, featuring contrasting themes and clear sections.

Question 9: Imagine you are listening to a piece of Classical music. What features would tell you it is from the Classical period?

Answer: Features include balanced melodies, clear harmonic structure, moderate tempos, and a transparent orchestral texture.

Question 10: Sketch a simple musical staff with four quarter notes in a balanced, ascending pattern. Describe what a correct answer would look like.

Answer: A correct sketch would show four evenly spaced notes on the staff, ascending stepwise, with each note occupying a quarter note duration, demonstrating clear pitch progression.