Online Music Lessons Theory 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the term for two notes played simultaneously?
- Interval (Correct answer)
- Chord
- Arpeggio
- Melody
Correct answer: Interval
An interval is the distance or relationship between two notes sounded at the same time or in sequence.
Question 2: Which mode starts on the second degree of the major scale?
- Phrygian
- Dorian (Correct answer)
- Lydian
- Mixolydian
Correct answer: Dorian
The Dorian mode begins on the second scale degree of its relative major scale.
Question 3: What does 'piano' (p) indicate in sheet music?
- Fast tempo
- Soft dynamic (Correct answer)
- Slow tempo
- Loud dynamic
Correct answer: Soft dynamic
Piano (p) is an Italian dynamic marking meaning to play softly or quietly.
Question 4: How many semitones are in a perfect fifth?
- 5
- 6
- 7 (Correct answer)
- 8
Correct answer: 7
A perfect fifth spans 7 semitones, for example from C to G.
Question 5: What is a fermata symbol used for?
- Repeat the section
- Hold the note longer than its value (Correct answer)
- Play staccato
- Increase the tempo
Correct answer: Hold the note longer than its value
A fermata tells the performer to hold a note or rest for longer than its written duration.
Question 6: In music theory, what is a 'tritone'?
- An interval of three whole tones (Correct answer)
- A chord with three notes
- A triple-time rhythm
- A three-bar phrase
Correct answer: An interval of three whole tones
A tritone is an interval spanning three whole tones (six semitones), dividing the octave exactly in half.
Question 7: What does 'D.C. al Fine' mean in sheet music?
- Slow down to the end
- Return to the beginning and play to Fine (Correct answer)
- Jump to the coda
- Repeat the last measure
Correct answer: Return to the beginning and play to Fine
D.C. al Fine (Da Capo al Fine) instructs the performer to return to the start and play until the word 'Fine'.
Online Music Lessons Theory 2
What is the term for two notes played simultaneously?