Music Transcription Standard Notation and Dynamics Questions and Answers

Question 1

A single note in an otherwise quiet passage is performed with a sudden, forceful attack, which immediately becomes soft. Which notation best represents this effect?

Accepted Answer

fp (fortepiano)

Answer

The marking 'fp' (fortepiano) literally means 'loud-soft' and instructs the performer to attack the note loudly (forte) and then immediately become soft (piano). While 'sfz' indicates a strong, forced accent, it does not inherently include the immediate reduction in volume that follows.

Question 2

Which of the following terms describes a style of articulation that combines the weight of a legato touch with the separation of staccato, often notated with staccato dots under a slur?

Accepted Answer

Portato

Answer

Portato, also known as mezzo-staccato, is an articulation indicating a smooth, pulsing, or gently detached style. It is correctly notated with staccato dots under a slur, instructing the performer to play the notes with separation but within a connected, legato phrase.

Question 3

Which of the following correctly describes the execution of a standard mordent (an unadorned squiggle symbol) in common practice period music?

Accepted Answer

A rapid, three-note figure consisting of the principal note, the note a step above, and the principal note again.

Answer

A standard (or upper) mordent is an ornament that involves playing the principal (written) note, quickly moving to the upper auxiliary note (a diatonic step above), and immediately returning to the principal note. The mordent with a vertical line through it indicates alternation with the lower neighbor note.

Question 4

In the final section of a piece, the music gradually slows down while simultaneously building in volume to a powerful conclusion. Which combination of markings would a transcriber use to notate this?

Accepted Answer

ritardando and crescendo

Answer

The term 'ritardando' (or 'rallentando') indicates a gradual slowing of the tempo. The term 'crescendo' indicates a gradual increase in volume. This combination accurately reflects the described musical effect of slowing down while getting louder.

Question 5

What is the primary notational difference between a tie and a slur?

Accepted Answer

A tie connects two notes of the exact same pitch to create a single duration, while a slur connects different pitches to be played legato.

Answer

A tie is a curved line that joins two notes of the exact same pitch, creating a single, sustained sound with their combined rhythmic duration. A slur is a curved line that connects two or more notes of different pitches, indicating they should be played smoothly and connectedly (legato).

Music Transcription Practice Test

Music Transcription Practice Test

Music Transcription Standard Notation and Dynamics Questions and Answers