Question 1

Name four important forms used by Classical composers.

Accepted Answer

Classical composers, particularly from the Classical period (roughly 1750-1820), utilized a variety of musical forms to structure their compositions. Four important forms that were commonly used by these composers include:

1. Sonata Form: Also known as sonata-allegro form, this is one of the most significant and widely used musical structures in classical music. It typically consists of three main sections: the exposition, where the main themes are presented; the development, where these themes are explored and varied; and the recapitulation, where the original themes return, often with some variation. This form was used extensively in the first movement of sonatas, symphonies, and concertos.

2. Theme and Variations: In this form, a theme is presented and then followed by a series of variations that alter the melody, harmony, rhythm, or orchestration. Each variation retains some elements of the original theme but changes others, creating a rich and evolving tapestry of music. This form was often used in the second movement of symphonies and string quartets, as well as in standalone pieces.

3. Rondo Form: The rondo is characterized by a recurring theme (the "refrain") that alternates with contrasting sections (the "episodes"). The structure is typically A-B-A-C-A, with the A section being the main theme and the B and C sections providing variety. Rondos were frequently used for the final movements of classical sonatas and symphonies.

4. Minuet and Trio: This form was originally a dance in triple meter and became a standard movement in the four-movement classical symphony, sonata, or string quartet. It consists of two main sections: the minuet (A), which is followed by the trio (B), a contrasting section that usually has a lighter texture. The minuet is then repeated (A). The overall structure is A-B-A, and it is typically the third movement in a four-movement work.

These forms provided a framework that allowed composers to create a wide range of emotional and intellectual experiences for their audiences, and they continue to influence the structure of classical music compositions today.

Question 2

The most versatile medium for Classical composers was the:

Accepted Answer

A)   orchestra.
B)   organ.
C)   piano.
D)   chorus. A

Question 3

Two French philosophers famously associated with the Enlightenment are:

Accepted Answer

A)   Newton and Leibniz.
B)   Voltaire and Rousseau.
C)   Galileo and Voltaire.
D)   Newton and Rousseau. B

Question 4

The Classical style emerged in the ________ century.

Accepted Answer

A)   early seventeenth
B)   mid-seventeenth
C)   early eighteenth
D)   mid-eighteenth

Question 5

The percussion section of a Classical orchestra included:

Accepted Answer

A)   a bass drum.
B)   two timpani.
C)   timpani and cymbals.
D)   a bass drum and cymbals.

Question 6

Opera buffa refers to ________ opera.

Accepted Answer

A)   Italian comic
B)   Italian dramatic
C)   French Baroque
D)   Florentine

Question 7

Music during the Enlightenment was meant to:

Accepted Answer

A)   impress and instruct.
B)   glorify God.
C)   please and entertain.
D)   enlighten the world with rational, intellectual polyphony.

Question 8

The eighteenth-century salon was a(n):

Accepted Answer

A)   opera house.
B)   concert hall.
C)   gathering in a home.
D)   arts lecture in a public place.

Question 9

Name two innovations of the Enlightenment that had an impact on the musical life of that era.Explain the effect(s)of each.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Name two innovations of the Enlightenment that...

Question 10

In the Classical orchestra,the woodwind and brass instruments:

Accepted Answer

A)   were not specified.
B)   had clearly defined roles.
C)   always played along with the string section.
D)   generally played together.

Question 11

Why did Classical composers use repetition in music?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Why did Classical composers use repetition in...

Question 12

How are Classical themes "closed off"?

Accepted Answer

A)   with one clear cadence
B)   with multiple cadences
C)   with a rest
D)   with the beginning of the next theme

Question 13

The predominant texture of Classical music is:

Accepted Answer

A)   monophony.
B)   homophony.
C)   imitative polyphony.
D)   non-imitative polyphony.

Question 14

Which is true of Classical music?

Accepted Answer

A)   The basic Classical orchestra had fewer instruments than the basic Baroque orchestra.
B)   Composers of Classical music tried to emulate the unvarying rhythms of Baroque music.
C)   Composers of Classical music worked extensively with all musical elements to add variety and flexibility.
D)   Classical themes tend to be less tuneful than Baroque themes.

Question 15

The eighteenth-century public concert included principally:

Accepted Answer

A)   symphonies and concertos.
B)   opera arias and recitatives.
C)   chamber music.
D)   piano sonatas.

Question 16

Compare and contrast the Classical orchestra with the Baroque orchestra.How did the functions of the woodwind,brass,and percussion families change?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Compare and contrast the Classical orchestra with...

Question 17

In the Classical era,counterpoint was used to create ________ and was often found in ________ sections.

Accepted Answer

A)   stability; homophonic
B)   tension; slow
C)   stability; development
D)   tension; development

Question 18

Which ruler in the Classical era was known for his generous encouragement of music?

Accepted Answer

A)   Cosimo de' Medici
B)   King John
C)   Emperor Joseph II
D)   Louis XIV

Question 19

Characterize the use of rhythm by Classical composers.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Characterize the use of rhythm by Classical...

Question 20

What was the result of the Classical practice of using standard forms?

Accepted Answer

A)   More specialization occurred with Classical composers than with those of previous periods.
B)   Fewer pieces were written, since there was a limited number of acceptable forms.
C)   Music became less predictable for the listener.
D)   Forms provided a commonly understood frame of reference for appreciating music.

Exam 12: Prelude: Music and the Enlightenment