Music Theory Flashcards
7 cards from real BM or BMus Bachelor of Music practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Music Theory flashcards as text
Which type of seventh chord is built on the leading tone (VII) in a major key?
Answer: Half-diminished seventh
The seventh chord on the leading tone in a major key is a half-diminished seventh (diminished triad + minor seventh).
What does 'rubato' mean as a performance instruction?
Answer: Flexible tempo, robbing and restoring time
Rubato means the performer can freely expand and contract the tempo for expressive effect.
In a double period, how many phrases are typically present?
Answer: 4
A double period contains four phrases, typically organized as an antecedent-consequent pair repeated or varied.
Which of the following chords is a Neapolitan chord (N or bII)?
Answer: A major chord built on the lowered 2nd scale degree
The Neapolitan chord is a major chord built on the lowered 2nd scale degree (bII), most often used in first inversion.
What is a pedal point in music theory?
Answer: A sustained or repeated note held while harmonies change above or below it
A pedal point is a sustained pitch (usually in the bass) that is held while the surrounding harmonies change.
Which scale degree is called the 'subdominant'?
Answer: 4th
The subdominant is the 4th scale degree, named because it is a fifth below the tonic (mirroring the dominant above).
A passage marked 'sforzando' (sfz) calls for what?
Answer: A sudden, strong accent on a note or chord
Sforzando (sfz) means to play the note or chord with a sudden, strong forced accent.