Singing Exam

Question 1

Features of 20th Century music (4)

Answer 1

• Rhythm often complex and irregular
• There are unpredictable with wide leaps, irregular rhythms and unexpected phrases
• Increased use of dissonance (lack of harmony)
• Abandonment of tonality

Question 2

Features of baroque music (6)

Answer 2

TEXTURE: Balance of Homophonic (melody with chordal harmony) and polyphonic textures.

DYNAMICS: Abrupt shifts from loud to soft - achieved by adding or subtracting instruments.

many ornaments

No pedalling

Because the harpsichord was often used in baroque music the dynamics have abrupt changes and low notes and high notes were not achievable

Question 3

Features of romantic music

Answer 3

• It was more personal and emotional
• Song-like melodies (lyrical), as well as many chromatic harmonies and discords
• Dramatic contrasts of dynamics and pitch.

Question 4

Features of classical music

Answer 4

• lighter, clearer texture than Baroque music and is less complex.
• It is mainly homophonic, using a clear melody line over a subordinate chordal accompaniment
• can suddenly change from long notes to short notes
• gradual dynamic change
• occasional use of pedal