Ocr GCSE Music, General Syllabus Content
- 1.
Which of the following notes is syncopated?
- A.
C
- B.
D
- C.
E
- D.
F
- E.
G
- F.
A
- G.
B
Correct Answer
E. GExplanation
The note G is syncopated because it falls on an offbeat or weak part of the musical measure. Syncopation is a rhythmic technique where emphasis is placed on unexpected beats, creating a sense of tension and excitement in the music. In this case, the note G is not played on the downbeat, but rather on a weaker beat, creating a syncopated rhythm.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Give the name for harmony that uses only the notes of the major scale.
Correct Answer
DiatonicExplanation
Diatonic is the correct answer because it refers to a type of harmony that is based solely on the notes of the major scale. In diatonic harmony, chords and melodies are constructed using only the seven notes of the major scale, without any additional chromatic or non-scale tones. This creates a sense of consonance and stability, as all the notes used in diatonic harmony naturally relate to the tonic or root note of the major scale.Rate this question:
- 3.
Give the name for harmony that contains lots of clashing chords, but that might still be in a key.
Correct Answer
dissonantExplanation
Dissonant refers to a type of harmony that consists of clashing chords, creating a sense of tension or instability. Despite the clash, it is possible for dissonant harmony to still be in a key, meaning it follows a specific set of notes or scales. In this context, "dissonant" is the correct answer as it accurately describes harmony with clashing chords that can still be within a key.Rate this question:
- 4.
Give the name for harmony where no sense of key can be determined whatsoever.
Correct Answer
Atonal
atonalityExplanation
Atonal and atonality are the correct answers for the given question. Atonal refers to music that lacks a clear sense of key, while atonality is the absence of a tonal center or key. In atonal music, traditional harmonic rules are often disregarded, resulting in a lack of tonal hierarchy or resolution. Therefore, both terms accurately describe the concept of harmony where no sense of key can be determined.Rate this question:
- 5.
Give the name for music which uses a lot of accidentals and movement by the semitone.
Correct Answer
chromatic
chromaticism
chromaticallyExplanation
The term "chromatic" refers to music that uses a lot of accidentals and movement by the semitone. "Chromaticism" is the concept or technique of using chromatic notes in music, while "chromatically" describes the manner in which something is done in a chromatic way. All three options are related to the use of accidentals and semitone movement in music.Rate this question:
- 6.
What is the technical name for the root note of the scale?
Correct Answer
TonicExplanation
The technical name for the root note of the scale is called the tonic. In music theory, the tonic is the first note of a scale and serves as the central pitch around which the rest of the scale revolves. It is often considered the most stable and important note in a scale, providing a sense of resolution and rest.Rate this question:
- 7.
What is the technical name for the fourth degree of the scale?
Correct Answer
Subdominant
sub-dominantExplanation
The technical name for the fourth degree of the scale is "subdominant" or "sub-dominant". In music theory, the subdominant is the note or chord that is a perfect fourth below the tonic. It is an important harmonic function and is often used to create tension and prepare for the dominant chord. The terms "subdominant" and "sub-dominant" are interchangeable and refer to the same concept in music theory.Rate this question:
- 8.
What is the techical name for the fifth degree of the scale?
Correct Answer
DominantExplanation
The technical name for the fifth degree of the scale is the dominant. In music theory, the dominant is a term used to describe the fifth note of a diatonic scale. It is an important note that often leads back to the tonic, creating a sense of tension and resolution. The dominant note and chord have a strong presence in many musical compositions and are essential in creating harmonic progressions.Rate this question:
- 9.
Largo means...
- A.
Slowly
- B.
Moderately fast
- C.
Fast
- D.
Very Fast
Correct Answer
A. SlowlyExplanation
Largo is a musical term that indicates a slow tempo. In Italian, "largo" literally means "wide" or "broad," suggesting a leisurely and unhurried pace. Therefore, the correct answer is "Slowly."Rate this question:
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- 10.
Andante means...
- A.
Slowly
- B.
Moderately fast
- C.
Fast
- D.
Very Fast
Correct Answer
B. Moderately fastExplanation
Andante is a musical term that indicates a moderate tempo. It is neither slow nor fast, but rather a moderate speed. It is often described as being played at a walking pace or a comfortable speed. Therefore, the correct answer is "Moderately fast."Rate this question:
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- 11.
Moderato means roughly the same as
- A.
Largo
- B.
Andante
- C.
Presto
- D.
Allegro
Correct Answer
B. AndanteExplanation
Andante is the correct answer because it is a musical term that indicates a moderately slow tempo. Similarly, moderato also refers to a moderate tempo, which aligns with the meaning of Andante. Largo, Presto, and Allegro, on the other hand, refer to different tempos, with Largo being very slow, Presto being very fast, and Allegro being fast. Therefore, Andante is the most suitable option as it shares a similar tempo indication with moderato.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Vivace means about the same as...
- A.
Largo
- B.
Andante
- C.
Divertimento
- D.
Allegro
Correct Answer
D. AllegroExplanation
Vivace is an Italian musical term that indicates a fast and lively tempo. Similarly, Allegro is also an Italian musical term that denotes a fast and lively tempo. Therefore, both Vivace and Allegro convey the same meaning in terms of tempo, making Allegro the correct answer.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Allegro means...
- A.
Slowly
- B.
Moderately fast
- C.
Fast
- D.
Very Fast
Correct Answer
C. FastExplanation
Allegro is a musical term that indicates a fast tempo. It is often used to describe lively and energetic music.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Presto means
- A.
Slowly
- B.
Moderately fast
- C.
Fast
- D.
Very Fast
Correct Answer
D. Very FastExplanation
Presto is an Italian musical term that means "very fast." It is often used as a tempo marking in music to indicate a quick and lively pace. The term is derived from the Italian word "presto," which means "quick" or "rapid." In musical notation, presto is typically indicated by a metronome marking of 168-200 beats per minute, depending on the context and style of the piece. So, when someone uses the term "presto," they are referring to a very fast speed or tempo.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Give the correct technical name for getting faster.
Correct Answer
AccelerandoExplanation
Accelerando is the correct technical term for getting faster. It is an Italian musical term that indicates a gradual increase in tempo or speed. In other words, it is used to describe a gradual acceleration or quickening of the pace in music.Rate this question:
- 16.
Give any Itialian word that means only getting slower.
Correct Answer
Rit
rall
rallentando
ritenuto
ritardandoExplanation
The correct answer is "ritardando." In Italian, "ritardando" means gradually slowing down the tempo of a musical piece. It is a musical term used to indicate a decrease in speed or a deceleration of the music.Rate this question:
- 17.
Give the name of the symbol above the middle C.
Correct Answer
Pause
Pause mark
FermataExplanation
The symbol above the middle C can be referred to as a Pause, Pause mark, or Fermata. These symbols indicate a break or pause in the music, allowing the performer to hold the note or rest longer than its normal duration. The Pause and Pause mark are often used interchangeably, while the Fermata specifically denotes a longer pause or hold.Rate this question:
- 18.
Which of the following is the correct name for a high boy's voice?
- A.
Treble
- B.
Counter-tenor
- C.
Soprano
- D.
Alto
Correct Answer
A. TrebleExplanation
Treble is the correct name for a high boy's voice. In vocal music, treble refers to the highest range of a person's voice, typically associated with children or young boys. This term is commonly used in choral music and is often used to describe a boy soprano or a young male singer with a high-pitched voice. Treble voices are known for their clarity and purity of tone in the higher register.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Which of the following is the correct name for a man's voice that sings in the same range as an alto?
- A.
Treble
- B.
Counter-tenor
- C.
Soprano
- D.
Contralto
Correct Answer
B. Counter-tenorExplanation
A counter-tenor is the correct name for a man's voice that sings in the same range as an alto. The counter-tenor voice is characterized by its high range and often possesses a light and agile quality. This voice type is commonly found in classical and early music genres, where male singers use falsetto or head voice to reach the higher notes typically associated with female voices. The term "counter-tenor" is derived from the Latin word "contratenor," meaning "against the tenor," as it provides a contrasting vocal color to the lower male voices.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Give the name type of structure in two parts.
Correct Answer
Binary
Binary formExplanation
The given correct answer consists of two parts: "Binary" and "Binary form". In this context, "Binary" refers to a type of structure, while "Binary form" specifies a specific form or variation of that structure. It is common in language to use such two-part names to differentiate between general categories and specific variations or types within those categories.Rate this question:
- 21.
Give the proper name for the structure of a piece in ABA form.
Correct Answer
Ternary form
ternaryExplanation
The proper name for the structure of a piece in ABA form is Ternary form. Ternary form is a musical structure that consists of three distinct sections: A, B, and A. The first section (A) establishes a musical idea, followed by a contrasting second section (B). Finally, the piece returns to the initial musical idea in the third section (A). This structure is commonly used in classical music and provides a balanced and cohesive form to the composition.Rate this question:
- 22.
Give the name of the structure which consists of a melody which keeps returning, with episodes in between, (e.g. ABACADA , etc)
Correct Answer
Rondo
rondo formExplanation
The correct answer is "Rondo" or "rondo form". Rondo is a musical form that features a recurring main theme (A) alternating with contrasting episodes (B, C, D, etc). This structure creates a sense of familiarity and contrast within the piece. The main theme serves as a anchor point that keeps returning throughout the composition, while the episodes provide variety and development. Rondo form is commonly used in classical music and can be found in many compositions across different genres.Rate this question:
- 23.
QUICK! Identify the note names of the sequence below. Use capitals and a small "b" to show the flats.
Correct Answer
FBbCGAbBDE
F Bb C G Ab B D E
F, Bb, C, G, Ab, B, D, E,
F,Bb,C,G,Ab,B,D,E,Explanation
The sequence of note names is F, Bb, C, G, Ab, B, D, E.Rate this question:
- 24.
Identify the ornament.
- A.
Trill
- B.
Turn
- C.
Grace Note
- D.
Mordant
Correct Answer
A. TrillExplanation
A trill is a musical ornament that involves rapidly alternating between two adjacent notes. It is typically indicated by a wavy line placed above or below the note. The trill adds a decorative and ornamental effect to the music, creating a rapid and fluttering sound. It is commonly used in various genres of music, including classical, jazz, and pop.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Identify the ornament.
- A.
Trill
- B.
Turn
- C.
Grace Note
- D.
Mordant
Correct Answer
D. MordantExplanation
A mordant is a musical ornament that involves rapidly alternating between the main note and a lower auxiliary note. It is typically indicated by a small vertical line or squiggle above or below the main note. This ornament adds a decorative and embellishing effect to the music, creating a sense of tension and excitement.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Identify the ornament.
- A.
Trill
- B.
Turn
- C.
Grace Note
- D.
Mordant
Correct Answer
B. TurnExplanation
A turn is a musical ornament that consists of the rapid alternation between two adjacent notes. It is typically written as a small curved line with a vertical line crossing it. When performed, the main note is played followed by the upper neighboring note, the main note again, and then the lower neighboring note. The turn adds embellishment and ornamentation to the melody, creating a more intricate and decorative sound.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Identify the ornament.
- A.
Trill
- B.
Turn
- C.
Grace Note
- D.
Mordant
Correct Answer
C. Grace NoteExplanation
A grace note is a musical ornament that is played quickly before a main note. It is often used to add decoration and embellishment to a melody. In this context, the other options - trill, turn, and mordant - are also musical ornaments, but the correct answer is grace note because it is the only option that specifically refers to a quick note played before a main note.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Give the correct Italian name for the ornament below. Watch your spelling!
Correct Answer
AcciaccaturaExplanation
The correct Italian name for the ornament shown is "Acciaccatura."Rate this question:
- 29.
Which of the following should NEVER be used to describe a musical texture?
- A.
Smooth
- B.
Thick
- C.
Melody and Accompaniment
- D.
Heterophonic
Correct Answer
A. SmoothExplanation
The term "smooth" is not typically used to describe musical texture. Musical texture refers to the way different musical parts or voices interact with each other. It can be described as thin or thick, depending on the number of layers or voices present. "Melody and Accompaniment" describes a specific type of texture where one voice carries the melody while others provide accompaniment. "Heterophonic" refers to a texture where multiple voices play variations of the same melody simultaneously.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Which of the following statements are true. (There may be more than one answer)
- A.
All rounds are canons
- B.
All fugues are rounds
- C.
All fugues are canonical
- D.
All canons are rounds
- E.
All canons are fugues
Correct Answer(s)
A. All rounds are canons
C. All fugues are canonicalExplanation
The statement "All rounds are canons" is true because a round is a type of composition where multiple voices sing the same melody but start at different times, and a canon is a type of composition where multiple voices imitate the same melody at different times. Therefore, all rounds can be considered canons.
The statement "All fugues are canonical" is true because a fugue is a type of composition that follows a specific structure and technique called "counterpoint," which is also known as "canonical" writing. Therefore, all fugues can be considered canonical.
In summary, all rounds can be considered canons, and all fugues can be considered canonical.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Identify the three statements that are most typical of Baroque music
- A.
A harpsichord is often used to fill in the texture
- B.
Melodic lines contain a lot of ornamentation
- C.
Harmony is largely based on tonic and dominant
- D.
Brass and percussion are used, but their roles are simple
- E.
Phrases are be clear and elegant will regular cadences
- F.
Melodies are lyrical and seamless
- G.
Much use is made of chromatic harmony
- H.
The brass section can play full chromatic scales for the first time
- I.
Composers enjoyed exploring dissonance as a feature
- J.
Composers enjoyed exploring irregular and complex rhythms
- K.
Orchestras consist of a small string section and a few other instruments
- L.
Composers might use jazz sounds in their music
Correct Answer(s)
A. A harpsichord is often used to fill in the texture
B. Melodic lines contain a lot of ornamentation
K. Orchestras consist of a small string section and a few other instrumentsExplanation
The three statements that are most typical of Baroque music are: a harpsichord is often used to fill in the texture, melodic lines contain a lot of ornamentation, and orchestras consist of a small string section and a few other instruments. These characteristics are commonly found in Baroque music, where the harpsichord is used as a continuo instrument to provide harmonic support, melodic lines are embellished with ornamentation, and orchestras are generally smaller compared to later periods.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Identify the three statements that are most typical of the music of the Classical period.
- A.
A harpsichord is often used to fill in the texture
- B.
Melodic lines contain a lot of ornamentation
- C.
Harmony is largely based on tonic and dominant
- D.
Brass and percussion are used, but their roles are simple
- E.
Phrases are be clear and elegant will regular cadences
- F.
Melodies are lyrical and seamless
- G.
Much use is made of chromatic harmony
- H.
The brass section can play full chromatic scales for the first time
- I.
Composers enjoyed exploring dissonance as a feature
- J.
Composers enjoyed exploring irregular and complex rhythms
- K.
Orchestras consist of a small string section and a few other instruments
- L.
Composers might use jazz sounds in their music
Correct Answer(s)
C. Harmony is largely based on tonic and dominant
D. Brass and percussion are used, but their roles are simple
E. pHrases are be clear and elegant will regular cadencesExplanation
The music of the Classical period is characterized by harmony that is largely based on tonic and dominant chords, with a focus on clear and elegant phrases that have regular cadences. Brass and percussion instruments are used, but their roles are typically simple and supportive rather than prominent. This style of music does not typically contain a lot of ornamentation or explore dissonance, irregular rhythms, or jazz sounds. The use of a harpsichord to fill in the texture and the presence of lyrical and seamless melodies are not specific to the Classical period.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Identify the three statements that are most typical of the music of the Romantic period.
- A.
A harpsichord is often used to fill in the texture
- B.
Melodic lines contain a lot of ornamentation
- C.
Harmony is largely based on tonic and dominant
- D.
Brass and percussion are used, but their roles are simple
- E.
Phrases are be clear and elegant will regular cadences
- F.
Melodies are lyrical and seamless
- G.
Much use is made of chromatic harmony
- H.
The brass section can play full chromatic scales for the first time
- I.
Composers enjoyed exploring dissonance as a feature
- J.
Composers enjoyed exploring irregular and complex rhythms
- K.
Orchestras consist of a small string section and a few other instruments
- L.
Composers might use jazz sounds in their music
Correct Answer(s)
F. Melodies are lyrical and seamless
G. Much use is made of chromatic harmony
H. The brass section can play full chromatic scales for the first timeExplanation
During the Romantic period, melodies were characterized by being lyrical and seamless, allowing for emotional expression. Additionally, composers of this period often used chromatic harmony extensively, incorporating notes outside of the traditional major and minor scales to create rich and expressive harmonies. Furthermore, the advancement of musical instruments allowed brass sections to play full chromatic scales for the first time, expanding the range and possibilities of their sound. These three statements capture the typical features of Romantic music, highlighting the emphasis on melody, chromaticism, and the evolving capabilities of brass instruments.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Identify the three statements that are most typical of modern music
- A.
A harpsichord is often used to fill in the texture
- B.
Melodic lines contain a lot of ornamentation
- C.
Harmony is largely based on tonic and dominant
- D.
Brass and percussion are used, but their roles are simple
- E.
Phrases are be clear and elegant will regular cadences
- F.
Melodies are lyrical and seamless
- G.
Much use is made of chromatic harmony
- H.
The brass section can play full chromatic scales for the first time
- I.
Composers enjoyed exploring dissonance as a feature
- J.
Composers enjoyed exploring irregular and complex rhythms
- K.
Orchestras consist of a small string section and a few other instruments
- L.
Composers might use jazz sounds in their music
Correct Answer(s)
I. Composers enjoyed exploring dissonance as a feature
J. Composers enjoyed exploring irregular and complex rhythms
L. Composers might use jazz sounds in their musicExplanation
The three statements that are most typical of modern music are: composers enjoyed exploring dissonance as a feature, composers enjoyed exploring irregular and complex rhythms, and composers might use jazz sounds in their music. These statements suggest that modern music often incorporates dissonant harmonies, unconventional rhythms, and elements of jazz. This reflects the experimental and diverse nature of modern music, as composers seek to push the boundaries and explore new sounds and techniques.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Give the order of the sharps in a key signature in the form ABCDEFG
Correct Answer(s)
FCGDAEBExplanation
The order of sharps in a key signature is always the same and follows the pattern of FCGDAEB. This pattern is used to indicate which notes should be played as sharps in a given key. In the case of FCGDAEB, it means that the key signature has all the sharps: F#, C#, G#, D#, A#, E#, and B#.Rate this question:
- 36.
Giver the order of flats in a key signature in the order ABCDEFG
Correct Answer(s)
BEADGCFExplanation
The given answer, BEADGCF, represents the order of flats in a key signature. In a key signature, flats are added in a specific order to indicate which notes are to be played as flat throughout a piece of music. The order of flats is B, E, A, D, G, C, and F. This means that in a key signature with flats, the notes B, E, A, D, G, C, and F should be played as flat notes.Rate this question:
- 37.
Identify the major key associated with the following key signature.
- A.
C
- B.
C#
- C.
D
- D.
Eb
- E.
E
- F.
F
- G.
F#
- H.
G
- I.
Ab
- J.
A
- K.
Bb
- L.
B
Correct Answer
F. FExplanation
The major key associated with the given key signature is F. This is because the key signature contains one flat, which is Bb. In the major key, the note that is a whole step below the last flat in the key signature is the tonic, or the starting note of the key. In this case, the last flat is Bb, and a whole step below Bb is the note A. Therefore, the major key associated with this key signature is F major, with the tonic note F.Rate this question:
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- 38.
Identify the MINOR key associated with the following key signature.
- A.
C
- B.
C#
- C.
D
- D.
Eb
- E.
E
- F.
F
- G.
F#
- H.
G
- I.
Ab
- J.
A
- K.
Bb
- L.
B
Correct Answer
C. DExplanation
The key signature with the notes C, C#, D, Eb, E, F, F#, G, Ab, A, Bb, and B is associated with the D minor key. In the key of D minor, the notes D, E, F, G, A, Bb, and C are used, which are all present in the given key signature. Therefore, the correct answer is D.Rate this question:
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- 39.
Identify the MINOR key associated with the following key signature.
- A.
C
- B.
C#
- C.
D
- D.
Eb
- E.
E
- F.
F
- G.
F#
- H.
G
- I.
Ab
- J.
A
- K.
Bb
- L.
B
Correct Answer
E. EExplanation
The key signature that is associated with the minor key of E is E minor. In this key signature, the notes E, F#, G, A, B, C, and D are all natural, while the note D is lowered by a half step to Dâ™. This alteration of the seventh note creates a minor third interval between the tonic (E) and the lowered seventh (Dâ™), giving the E minor key its distinct minor sound.Rate this question:
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- 40.
Identify the major key associated with the following key signature.
- A.
C
- B.
C#
- C.
D
- D.
Eb
- E.
E
- F.
F
- G.
F#
- H.
G
- I.
Ab
- J.
A
- K.
Bb
- L.
B
Correct Answer
K. BbExplanation
The major key associated with the given key signature is Bb major. This is because the key signature contains the note Bb, which is the tonic or first note of the Bb major scale. In the key of Bb major, all the B's are played as Bb and there are no other accidentals (sharps or flats) indicated in the key signature.Rate this question:
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- 41.
Identify the MINOR key associated with the following key signature.
- A.
C
- B.
C#
- C.
D
- D.
Eb
- E.
E
- F.
F
- G.
F#
- H.
G
- I.
Ab
- J.
A
- K.
Bb
- L.
B
Correct Answer
H. GExplanation
The key signature given consists of one sharp, which is F#. In music theory, the key signature with one sharp is associated with the key of G major. The relative minor key of G major is E minor. Therefore, the minor key associated with this key signature is E minor.Rate this question:
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- 42.
Identify the major key associated with the following key signature.
- A.
C
- B.
C#
- C.
D
- D.
Eb
- E.
E
- F.
F
- G.
F#
- H.
G
- I.
Ab
- J.
A
- K.
Bb
- L.
B
Correct Answer
C. DExplanation
The major key associated with the given key signature is D major. This is because the key signature contains two sharps, F# and C#, which are the third and seventh notes in the D major scale. Therefore, D major is the correct answer.Rate this question:
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- 43.
Identify the MINOR key associated with the following key signature.
- A.
C
- B.
C#
- C.
D
- D.
Eb
- E.
E
- F.
F
- G.
F#
- H.
G
- I.
Ab
- J.
A
- K.
Bb
- L.
B
Correct Answer
A. CExplanation
The minor key associated with the given key signature is C minor. In the key signature, there are three flats (Bb, Eb, and Ab), which indicates that the key is in C minor. The presence of these flats corresponds to the natural minor scale of C minor, where the 3rd, 6th, and 7th notes are lowered by a half step. Therefore, the correct answer is C minor.Rate this question:
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- 44.
Identify the major key associated with the following key signature.
- A.
C
- B.
C#
- C.
D
- D.
Eb
- E.
E
- F.
F
- G.
F#
- H.
G
- I.
Ab
- J.
A
- K.
Bb
- L.
B
Correct Answer
J. AExplanation
The major key associated with the given key signature is A major. This is because the key signature contains three sharps: F#, C#, and G#. The presence of these sharps indicates that the key is A major, as the A major scale includes these three sharps in its key signature.Rate this question:
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