BM or BMus Bachelor of Music Music Theory 5

Question 1

What is the term for a chord progression where the bass moves in descending thirds?

Accepted Answer

Descending thirds sequence

Answer

A descending thirds sequence (also called a mediant sequence) moves the bass through consecutive thirds downward.

Question 2

In 12-tone (serial) technique, what is a 'retrograde inversion'?

Accepted Answer

The row played backwards and upside-down

Answer

Retrograde inversion combines both operations: the intervals of the row are inverted (flipped) and then the result is played in reverse order.

Question 3

Which term describes two or more melodically independent voices sounding simultaneously?

Accepted Answer

Polyphony

Answer

Polyphony refers to musical texture in which two or more independent melodic lines are performed simultaneously.

Question 4

What is the function of a 'bridge' section in a standard 32-bar AABA song form?

Accepted Answer

It provides contrast before the final A section returns

Answer

The B section (bridge) contrasts with the A sections harmonically and melodically before the final A section recaps the main theme.

Question 5

Which of the following best defines 'hemiola'?

Accepted Answer

A rhythmic pattern that implies a 3:2 ratio against the prevailing meter

Answer

Hemiola is a rhythmic device where three beats are grouped in a way that implies two beats (or vice versa), creating a 3:2 cross-rhythm.

BM or BMus Bachelor of Music Practice Test