Music Transcription Melodic and Interval Dictation 4

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the 'contour' of a melody in transcription?

Accepted Answer

The overall shape — whether it rises, falls, arches, or stays level

Answer

Melodic contour describes the general direction and shape of the pitch movement throughout the phrase.

Question 2

A melody in C major ends on the pitch E. On which scale degree does it end?

Accepted Answer

Scale degree 3

Answer

In C major, E is the third note of the scale, so the melody ends on scale degree 3 (Mi).

Question 3

You hear an interval that matches the opening two notes of 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.' What interval is it?

Accepted Answer

Major second

Answer

The first two notes of 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star' move by a major second (whole step) from C to D.

Question 4

In a melodic dictation exercise, you hear a motive repeated but starting on a different scale degree. What technique is being used?

Accepted Answer

Sequence

Answer

A sequence repeats a melodic motive at a higher or lower pitch level, a common compositional device and dictation challenge.

Question 5

What is the quality of the interval between scale degrees 2 and 6 in a natural minor scale?

Accepted Answer

Diminished fifth

Answer

In a natural minor scale, the interval from scale degree 2 up to scale degree 6 spans a diminished fifth (six half steps).

Music Transcription Practice Test