Question 1: Describe two characteristics of music that are typical of the Baroque period.

Answer: Common characteristics include the use of ornate melodies with ornamentation, and the use of basso continuo for harmonic support.

Question 2: Identify the typical mood or emotion conveyed in Baroque music and give an example of how this might be expressed musically.

Answer: Baroque music often conveys a mood of grandeur or intensity. This can be expressed through fast tempos, ornamented melodies, and loud dynamics.

Question 3: Listen carefully to a passage of music inspired by the Baroque style. List two features you would expect to hear in this music.

Answer: Features may include a continuous bass line (basso continuo), intricate ornamentation, and a contrapuntal texture with multiple independent melodic lines.

Question 4: Explain what is meant by the term 'basso continuo' and its role in Baroque music.

Answer: Basso continuo refers to a continuous bass line played by keyboard or lute and a bass instrument, providing harmonic support and structure to the music.

Question 5: Sketch a simple musical pattern that could represent a typical Baroque ornamented melody. Label the main melody and ornamented notes.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a flowing melody with small grace notes or trills added to main notes, illustrating ornamentation typical of the Baroque style. The main melody should be simple with added decorative notes.

Question 6: Describe the typical structure of a Baroque piece such as a concerto or fugue.

Answer: A Baroque concerto often has three movements (fast-slow-fast), while a fugue features a main theme (subject) introduced and then developed through imitation across multiple voices.

Question 7: Identify two instruments that were commonly used as part of the Baroque orchestra.

Answer: Violins and harpsichords were commonly used instruments in Baroque orchestras.

Question 8: Explain how the use of ornamentation in Baroque music affects the way melodies are performed.

Answer: Ornamentation adds decorative notes and embellishments to the main melody, making the music more elaborate and expressive.

Question 9: Discuss the role of contrast in Baroque music, giving an example of how contrast might be used.

Answer: Contrast is used to create interest, such as alternating between loud and soft dynamics or contrasting solo and tutti sections in a concerto.

Question 10: Imagine you are listening to a piece where a solo instrument plays a highly decorated melody over a simple accompaniment. What style or period might this piece belong to, and why?

Answer: This piece likely belongs to the Baroque period, as it features a soloist with ornamented melodies over a basso continuo, which is characteristic of Baroque concertos.