Multiple Choice Questions
Music Theory: Contemporary Techniques and Analysis
Topic: Music Theory – Contemporary Techniques and Analysis
Grade: 11
Question 1:
Which of the following is a characteristic of serialism?
a) Use of functional tonality
b) Emphasis on hierarchy of chords
c) Strict adherence to predetermined tone rows
d) Frequent use of diatonic scales
Answer: c) Strict adherence to predetermined tone rows
Explanation: Serialism is a compositional technique that uses a predetermined series of pitches (tone row) to organize musical material. The composer arranges the pitches in a specific order and uses them as the basis for melody, harmony, and other musical elements. This technique aims to eliminate traditional tonal centers and create a more abstract and structured musical language. An example of a composer known for using serialism is Arnold Schoenberg, particularly in his composition \”Pierrot Lunaire.\”
Question 2:
Which of the following is an example of extended techniques in contemporary music?
a) Playing a melody using only diatonic scales
b) Strumming the strings of a guitar with a pick
c) Singing while playing the piano
d) Plucking the strings inside a piano with one\’s fingers
Answer: d) Plucking the strings inside a piano with one\’s fingers
Explanation: Extended techniques refer to unconventional methods of producing sound on traditional instruments. In this case, plucking the strings inside a piano with one\’s fingers creates unique sounds that are not typically associated with the instrument. This technique is often used in contemporary music to explore new timbres and textures. An example of a composer who extensively used extended techniques is John Cage, particularly in his composition \”Sonatas and Interludes for Prepared Piano.\”
Question 3:
Which of the following best describes polyrhythm?
a) Two or more rhythms played simultaneously
b) A single rhythm played at different speeds
c) A rhythmic pattern that repeats at regular intervals
d) A gradual change in tempo over time
Answer: a) Two or more rhythms played simultaneously
Explanation: Polyrhythm refers to the simultaneous use of two or more different rhythms. This technique creates a complex and layered rhythmic texture. For example, in African drumming, multiple drummers may play different rhythms simultaneously, resulting in a polyrhythmic effect. In contemporary classical music, composers like Steve Reich often use polyrhythms to create intricate and engaging musical structures.
Question 4:
Which of the following is a characteristic of minimalism?
a) Frequent use of dense chromatic harmonies
b) Extensive use of extended techniques
c) Repetition of simple melodic and rhythmic patterns
d) Complex and unpredictable harmonic progressions
Answer: c) Repetition of simple melodic and rhythmic patterns
Explanation: Minimalism is a compositional style that emerged in the late 20th century. It is characterized by the repetition of simple melodic and rhythmic patterns, often with subtle variations and gradual changes over time. This technique creates a hypnotic and meditative effect. An example of a minimalist composer is Philip Glass, particularly in his composition \”Music in Twelve Parts.\”
Question 5:
Which of the following best describes spectralism?
a) The use of electronic instruments in composition
b) The exploration of the acoustic properties of sound
c) The incorporation of elements from different musical cultures
d) The manipulation of pre-existing recordings
Answer: b) The exploration of the acoustic properties of sound
Explanation: Spectralism is a compositional technique that focuses on the acoustic properties of sound, particularly timbre and harmonic structure. Composers analyze and manipulate the spectral content of sounds to create unique and complex textures. An example of a spectralist composer is Gérard Grisey, particularly in his composition \”Partiels.\”
Question 6:
Which of the following is an example of aleatoric music?
a) A piece with a fixed structure and predetermined musical material
b) A composition with a clear tonal center and traditional harmonies
c) A piece where the performers have freedom to make choices during the performance
d) A composition with strict adherence to predetermined rhythmic patterns
Answer: c) A piece where the performers have freedom to make choices during the performance
Explanation: Aleatoric music, also known as chance music or indeterminate music, is a compositional technique that involves elements of randomness or improvisation. In this type of music, performers have the freedom to make choices during the performance, resulting in different interpretations and outcomes. An example of an aleatoric composer is John Cage, particularly in his composition \”4\’33\” where the performer remains silent for the entire duration, allowing the ambient sounds of the environment to be the \”music.\”
Question 7:
Which of the following is an example of a microtonal scale?
a) Major scale
b) Chromatic scale
c) Whole-tone scale
d) Quarter-tone scale
Answer: d) Quarter-tone scale
Explanation: A microtonal scale is a musical scale that divides the octave into more than the traditional 12 equal intervals. In a quarter-tone scale, the octave is divided into 24 equally spaced intervals, resulting in smaller intervals between adjacent pitches. This allows for the exploration of microtonal intervals and the creation of unique harmonic and melodic possibilities. An example of a composer who extensively used microtonal scales is Harry Partch.
Question 8:
Which of the following is an example of musique concrète?
a) A symphony orchestra performing a classical composition
b) A rock band performing a popular song
c) A composition created using recorded sounds and manipulated electronically
d) A solo pianist performing a virtuosic piece
Answer: c) A composition created using recorded sounds and manipulated electronically
Explanation: Musique concrète is a compositional technique that involves the manipulation and transformation of recorded sounds, often using electronic means. Composers take pre-existing sound recordings and manipulate them to create new and unique sonic materials. An example of a musique concrète composer is Pierre Schaeffer, particularly in his composition \”Étude aux chemins de fer\” where he used train sounds as the basis for the piece.
Question 9:
Which of the following best describes indeterminacy in music?
a) The use of predetermined musical material
b) A fixed structure and clear tonal center
c) The freedom for performers to make choices during the performance
d) The strict adherence to predetermined rhythmic patterns
Answer: c) The freedom for performers to make choices during the performance
Explanation: Indeterminacy in music refers to the inclusion of elements of chance or improvisation in the composition or performance. It allows performers to have the freedom to make choices during the performance, resulting in different interpretations and outcomes. An example of a composer known for incorporating indeterminacy in his music is Karlheinz Stockhausen.
Question 10:
Which of the following is an example of a post-minimalist composer?
a) John Adams
b) Igor Stravinsky
c) Claude Debussy
d) Ludwig van Beethoven
Answer: a) John Adams
Explanation: Post-minimalism is a musical style that developed in the late 20th century as a response to minimalism. It retains some of the repetitive and meditative qualities of minimalism but also incorporates more diverse musical influences and expressive elements. John Adams is considered one of the prominent post-minimalist composers, particularly in his compositions like \”Short Ride in a Fast Machine\” and \”Nixon in China.\”
Question 11:
Which of the following best describes a tone cluster?
a) A chord consisting of three or more pitches played simultaneously
b) A group of pitches played in quick succession
c) A gradual change in pitch over time
d) A series of repeated pitches at regular intervals
Answer: a) A chord consisting of three or more pitches played simultaneously
Explanation: A tone cluster refers to a chord consisting of three or more pitches played simultaneously, typically adjacent to each other in pitch. It creates a dissonant and dense sound. Tone clusters are often used in contemporary music to create tension and a sense of instability. An example of a composer who extensively used tone clusters is Charles Ives.
Question 12:
Which of the following best describes a prepared piano?
a) A piano with additional strings and hammers attached to produce unique sounds
b) A piano that is tuned to microtonal intervals
c) A piano that is played with mallets instead of fingers
d) A piano that is electronically amplified for a louder sound
Answer: a) A piano with additional strings and hammers attached to produce unique sounds
Explanation: A prepared piano is a piano that has had its sound altered by placing objects (such as screws, bolts, or rubber) on or between the strings, or by attaching additional strings and hammers. This technique creates a wide range of unique sounds and timbres. An example of a composer who extensively used a prepared piano is John Cage, particularly in his composition \”Sonatas and Interludes.\”
Question 13:
Which of the following is an example of a post-tonal composer?
a) Johann Sebastian Bach
b) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
c) Ludwig van Beethoven
d) Arnold Schoenberg
Answer: d) Arnold Schoenberg
Explanation: Post-tonal music refers to a compositional style that goes beyond traditional tonality, exploring new harmonic and melodic possibilities. Arnold Schoenberg is considered one of the pioneers of post-tonal music, particularly through his development of the twelve-tone technique. His composition \”Pierrot Lunaire\” is an example of post-tonal music.
Question 14:
Which of the following best describes a glissando?
a) A gradual change in dynamic level over time
b) A sudden change in tempo
c) A rapid slide between two pitches
d) A rhythmic pattern that repeats at regular intervals
Answer: c) A rapid slide between two pitches
Explanation: A glissando is a rapid slide between two pitches, creating a smooth and continuous transition. It is often performed on string instruments, where the player slides the finger along the string, or on keyboard instruments, where the player quickly glides across the keys. Glissandos can be used to add expressive and dramatic effects to the music. An example of a composer who extensively used glissandos is George Gershwin, particularly in his composition \”Rhapsody in Blue.\”
Question 15:
Which of the following best describes the use of electronics in contemporary music?
a) The replacement of traditional instruments with electronic instruments
b) The manipulation and transformation of recorded sounds
c) The use of electronics to amplify and modify the sound of traditional instruments
d) The incorporation of electronic dance music elements into classical compositions
Answer: c) The use of electronics to amplify and modify the sound of traditional instruments
Explanation: The use of electronics in contemporary music often involves the amplification and modification of the sound produced by traditional instruments. This can include adding effects, altering the timbre, or creating spatial and immersive sound experiences. An example of a composer who extensively used electronics in his compositions is Karlheinz Stockhausen, particularly in his electronic work \”Kontakte.\”