BM or BMus Bachelor of Music Musical Form and Analysis 5

Question 1

What is the term for the large-scale formal structure of a Baroque da capo aria, in which the first section is restated after a contrasting middle section?

Accepted Answer

Da capo (ABA) form

Answer

Da capo aria form (ABA) requires the performer to return to (da capo = 'from the head') and repeat the first section, often with added ornamentation.

Question 2

In the analysis of a Classical rondo finale (ABACABA), what harmonic area do the 'B' and 'C' episodes typically explore relative to the 'A' refrain?

Accepted Answer

Contrasting key areas (dominant, relative minor, etc.)

Answer

Rondo episodes contrast with the refrain by exploring different key areas such as the dominant, relative minor, or subdominant, providing tonal variety.

Question 3

What formal term describes a coda-like passage at the end of a development section that prepares the listener for the recapitulation?

Accepted Answer

Retransition

Answer

The retransition is the passage at the end of the development that builds harmonic tension (typically on the dominant) to prepare for the return of the tonic and first theme in the recapitulation.

Question 4

In 12-tone (serial) music, what is the term for the version of the row that presents it in reverse order from last pitch to first?

Accepted Answer

Retrograde

Answer

The retrograde presents the 12-tone row in reverse order, reading the original row from its last pitch back to its first.

Question 5

What analytical label identifies a passage in sonata form where the first theme returns briefly in the tonic during the development, before the actual recapitulation?

Accepted Answer

False recapitulation

Answer

A false recapitulation is a premature, illusory return of the first theme in the tonic during the development that is soon abandoned, delaying the true structural return.

BM or BMus Bachelor of Music Practice Test

BM or BMus Bachelor of Music Practice Test

BM or BMus Bachelor of Music Musical Form and Analysis 5