Elements Of Music Quiz Questions And Answers
Are you deeply into music? Do you know what the elements of music are? Then play this quiz and give correct answers to the following questions. Music can be analyzed by various elements or parts, including pitch, timbre, texture, volume, etc. Do you know which music element contains a beat, what is a pitch, and what form features two or more notes sounding the same? Check out such interesting questions related to music by taking this quiz. Best of luck!
- 1.
Which element of music contains beat and no beat?
- A.
Melody
- B.
Rhythm
- C.
Harmony
- D.
Form
Correct Answer
B. RhythmExplanation
Rhythm is the correct answer because it encompasses both beat and no beat elements in music. Beat refers to the regular, recurring pulse that provides a sense of timing and structure, while no beat refers to the absence of a regular pulse or a syncopated rhythm. Rhythm also includes the patterns and combinations of different durations and accents in music, which contribute to its overall feel and groove. Melody, harmony, and form are important elements in music, but they do not specifically involve the concept of beat and no beat.Rate this question:
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- 2.
In which element of music pitches go up, down, or stay the same?
- A.
Style
- B.
Rhythm
- C.
Melody
- D.
Texture
Correct Answer
C. MelodyExplanation
Melody refers to the sequence of musical notes that form a recognizable and memorable musical line. It is the element of music where pitches go up, down, or stay the same. In a melody, the pitches can ascend (go up), descend (go down), or repeat the same pitch. This is what gives a melody its distinct character and allows it to be easily distinguished from other elements of music such as rhythm, style, and texture.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Which element of music talks about how they are organized?
- A.
Form
- B.
Texture
- C.
Harmony
- D.
Melody
Correct Answer
A. FormExplanation
Form refers to the overall structure and organization of a piece of music. It determines how the different sections of a composition are arranged and how they relate to each other. Form provides a framework for the musical ideas and helps to create a sense of coherence and unity in the music. It can be thought of as the blueprint or roadmap of a musical composition, guiding the listener through the different sections and helping to shape their overall experience of the music.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which form talks about two or more notes sounding at the same time?
- A.
Melody
- B.
Rhythm
- C.
Texture
- D.
Harmony
Correct Answer
D. HarmonyExplanation
Harmony is the correct answer because it refers to the combination of two or more notes played simultaneously. It involves the vertical aspect of music, focusing on the relationships between different pitches and the chords and progressions created by these combinations. Melody, on the other hand, refers to a sequence of single notes played in succession, while rhythm pertains to the timing and arrangement of individual notes and rests. Texture refers to the overall quality and density of sound in a piece of music.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which element describes the layers of music we hear?
- A.
Tone Color
- B.
Texture
- C.
Expression
- D.
Harmony
Correct Answer
B. TextureExplanation
Texture refers to the layers of music we hear. In music, texture refers to the way different musical elements, such as melody, harmony, and rhythm, interact with each other to create a rich and complex sound. The texture can be thick or thin, depending on the number of layers or voices present in the music. It can also be homophonic, where all voices move together in harmony, or polyphonic, where multiple voices have independent melodic lines. Overall, texture plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of a musical composition.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Which element talks about how loud and soft music is?
- A.
Expression
- B.
Rhythm
- C.
Melody
- D.
Tone Color
Correct Answer
A. ExpressionExplanation
Expression in music refers to the dynamics or the variation in loudness and softness. It is the element that conveys the emotional intensity and mood of the music. Through expression, musicians can create a sense of tension, excitement, or calmness by playing with different levels of volume. It adds depth and nuance to the overall musical experience and allows the listener to connect with the music on a deeper level.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which element talks about the way something sounds or the timbre of the voice or instrument?
- A.
Harmony
- B.
Melody
- C.
Tone Color
- D.
Expression
Correct Answer
C. Tone ColorExplanation
Tone color refers to the characteristic quality of a sound or the timbre of a voice or instrument. It describes the unique way in which a sound is produced, distinguishing it from other sounds. Harmony refers to the combination of multiple pitches played simultaneously, melody refers to a sequence of single pitches organized in a musical line, and expression refers to the emotional or interpretive aspects of a performance. Therefore, tone color is the element that specifically addresses the way something sounds or the timbre of the voice or instrument.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Musical terms are written in what language?
- A.
German
- B.
Chinese
- C.
French
- D.
Italian
Correct Answer
D. ItalianExplanation
Musical terms are written in Italian because Italy has a rich history in classical music and opera. Many of the foundational principles and techniques in music were developed in Italy during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Italian composers and musicians have made significant contributions to the development of musical notation and terminology. Therefore, Italian became the language commonly used to write musical terms, such as tempo markings, dynamics, and expressions, which are still widely used in music today.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which meter has two or four beats to the measure?
- A.
Triple meter
- B.
Compound meter
- C.
Duple meter
- D.
Single meter
Correct Answer
C. Duple meterExplanation
Duple meter is the correct answer because it refers to a musical meter with two beats per measure. This means that each measure in duple meter will have two strong beats, creating a rhythmic pattern that is commonly found in many musical genres.Rate this question:
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- 10.
What beats are accented in triple meter?
- A.
Beat 1
- B.
Beat 2
- C.
Beat 3
- D.
All three beats
Correct Answer
A. Beat 1Explanation
In triple meter, the beats are grouped into sets of three. The first beat of each set is usually accented, giving it a stronger emphasis compared to the other beats. This accent on beat 1 helps establish the rhythmic pattern and gives a sense of stability and structure to the music. Therefore, beat 1 is the accented beat in triple meter.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Which words for tempo mean fast and very fast?
- A.
Largo
- B.
Presto
- C.
Andante
- D.
Allegro
- E.
Adagio
Correct Answer(s)
B. Presto
D. AllegroExplanation
Presto and Allegro are musical terms indicating tempo. Presto is used for very fast tempos, suggesting a lively and rapid pace ideal for energetic sections of music. Allegro denotes fast tempos, conveying cheerfulness and brisk movement, typically used to enhance the lively character of a piece. These terms specify speed in music execution.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which two words for tempo mean slow and very slow?
- A.
Largo
- B.
Presto
- C.
Andante
- D.
Allegro
- E.
Adagio
Correct Answer(s)
A. Largo
E. AdagioExplanation
Largo and Adagio are two words for tempo that mean slow and very slow. Largo is an Italian term that indicates a slow and broad tempo, while Adagio signifies a slow and leisurely pace. Both terms suggest a relaxed and unhurried tempo, allowing for a more expressive and contemplative interpretation of the music.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Which dynamic marking means medium-soft?
- A.
Mezzo Piano
- B.
Piano
- C.
Mezzo Forte
- D.
Forte
Correct Answer
A. Mezzo PianoExplanation
Mezzo Piano is the correct answer because it means medium-soft in music notation. "Mezzo" indicates a moderate or medium level, and "Piano" means soft. Therefore, Mezzo Piano represents a dynamic marking that instructs the musician to play at a medium-soft volume.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which dynamic marking means very loud?
- A.
P
- B.
Pp
- C.
Mf
- D.
Ff
Correct Answer
D. FfExplanation
The dynamic marking "ff" means fortissimo, which is the Italian term for very loud. This marking indicates that the music should be played with great strength and intensity.Rate this question:
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- 15.
What is shown by the symbol pp in music?
- A.
Very Loud
- B.
Soft
- C.
Medium soft
- D.
Very Soft
Correct Answer
D. Very SoftExplanation
The symbol "pp" in music indicates a very soft volume. In musical notation, dynamics are used to indicate the loudness or softness of a piece of music. "pp" stands for pianissimo, which is an Italian term meaning "very soft." It is used to instruct musicians to play the music with a very low volume, creating a delicate and gentle sound.Rate this question:
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- 16.
If a harmony sounds very nice and the notes do not clash, what is this called?
- A.
Dissonance
- B.
Mezzo Forte
- C.
Piano
- D.
Consonance
Correct Answer
D. ConsonanceExplanation
Consonance refers to a harmony that sounds pleasant and does not have any clashing notes. It is the opposite of dissonance, which is characterized by harsh or unpleasant sounds. In music, consonance is often used to create a sense of stability and resolution, providing a pleasing and satisfying listening experience.Rate this question:
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- 17.
A melody may move up, down, or stay the same.
- A.
True
- B.
False
- C.
Not clear
- D.
None
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is stating that a melody can move up, down, or stay the same. This means that a melody can either ascend, descend, or remain on the same pitch. Therefore, the statement is true.Rate this question:
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- 18.
If a piece of music has several different melody lines going at the same time the texture is...
- A.
Homophonic
- B.
Polyphonic
- C.
Monophonic
- D.
None
Correct Answer
B. PolypHonicExplanation
Polyphonic texture refers to music that has multiple independent melody lines happening simultaneously. In this type of texture, each melodic line is equally important and contributes to the overall sound. This creates a rich and complex musical texture with different melodies weaving together. Homophonic texture, on the other hand, features a main melody accompanied by harmonies, while monophonic texture has only one melody line. The answer "Polyphonic" accurately describes a piece of music with several different melody lines going at the same time.Rate this question:
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- 19.
If a piece of music has one main melody and a chordal accompaniment the texture is...
- A.
Homophonic
- B.
Monophonic
- C.
Polyphonic
- D.
None
Correct Answer
A. HomopHonicExplanation
Homophonic texture refers to a musical texture in which there is one main melody accompanied by a chordal accompaniment. This means that the melody is supported by harmonies, creating a clear distinction between the melody and the accompanying chords. In this case, since the piece of music has one main melody and a chordal accompaniment, it can be classified as having a homophonic texture.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Name the instrument that is not in the Brass family.
- A.
Trumpet
- B.
Viola
- C.
Trombone
- D.
French Horn
Correct Answer
B. ViolaExplanation
The viola is not in the Brass family. The trumpet, trombone, and French horn are all brass instruments, as they are made of brass and produce sound through the vibration of the player's lips. However, the viola is a string instrument, similar to a violin but slightly larger and lower in pitch. It is played with a bow and does not belong to the Brass family.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Name the instrument that is not in the string family.
- A.
Violin
- B.
Bass
- C.
Cello
- D.
Tuba
Correct Answer
D. TubaExplanation
The tuba is not in the string family. The violin, bass, and cello are all string instruments that produce sound by vibrating strings. However, the tuba is a brass instrument that produces sound by buzzing into a large cup-shaped mouthpiece and manipulating valves to change pitch.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Name the instrument that is not in the woodwind family.
- A.
Cymbals
- B.
Clarinet
- C.
English Horn
- D.
Flute
Correct Answer
A. CymbalsExplanation
Cymbals are not in the woodwind family because they are not wind instruments at all. They are actually a type of percussion instrument, consisting of two metal plates that are struck together to produce a loud, crashing sound. Woodwind instruments, on the other hand, produce sound by the vibration of air within a tube or pipe. The clarinet, English horn, and flute are all examples of woodwind instruments because they use this method of sound production.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Name the instrument that is not in the percussion family.
- A.
Snare Drum
- B.
Guiro
- C.
Piano
- D.
Bassoon
Correct Answer
D. BassoonExplanation
The bassoon is not in the percussion family because it is a woodwind instrument. Percussion instruments produce sound by being struck or shaken, while the bassoon is played by blowing air into a reed and using keys to change the pitch. Therefore, it does not belong to the percussion family which consists of instruments like drums, cymbals, and xylophones.Rate this question:
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- 24.
A song that has many verses sung to the same music is called...
- A.
Ternary
- B.
Strophic
- C.
Round
- D.
Binary
Correct Answer
B. StropHicExplanation
A song that has many verses sung to the same music is called strophic. In strophic songs, the melody remains the same throughout the song, while the lyrics change with each verse. This allows for repetition and familiarity, making it easier for listeners to learn and sing along to the song. It is a common form used in folk songs and hymns.Rate this question:
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- 25.
A song that has a verse and chorus that is sung over and over again (AB) is called...
- A.
Binary
- B.
Strophic
- C.
Ternary
- D.
Tertiary
Correct Answer
A. BinaryExplanation
A song that has a verse and chorus that is sung over and over again (AB) is called binary. In binary form, the verse (A) and chorus (B) alternate throughout the song, creating a repetitive structure. This form is commonly used in popular music and allows for a catchy and memorable melody to be repeated multiple times.Rate this question:
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- 26.
A person singing alone is singing a...
- A.
Duet
- B.
Trio
- C.
Solo
- D.
Quartet
Correct Answer
C. SoloExplanation
A person singing alone is singing a "solo" because solo refers to a performance or piece of music that is done by a single person. In this case, the person is singing by themselves without any other accompanying singers or musicians. A duet is a performance or piece of music done by two people, a trio is done by three people, and a quartet is done by four people.Rate this question:
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- 27.
A person singing with two other people is singing a..
- A.
Solo
- B.
Duet
- C.
Trio
- D.
Quartet
Correct Answer
C. TrioExplanation
When a person sings with two other people, they are performing in a trio. A trio consists of three musicians or vocalists performing together. In contrast, a solo is performed by one person, a duet by two people, and a quartet by four people. Each term specifies the number of participants involved in the performance, making "trio" the correct term for three singers.Rate this question:
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- 28.
If you are singing with a small group of people you are singing...
- A.
A solo
- B.
In an Ensemble
- C.
A quartet
- D.
A duet
Correct Answer
B. In an EnsembleExplanation
If you are singing with a small group of people, you are singing in an ensemble. An ensemble refers to a group of musicians or performers who come together to perform a piece of music or a theatrical production. It can include any number of participants, but in this case, since the group is small, it is considered an ensemble. The term "ensemble" is commonly used to describe a group performance that involves multiple voices or instruments working together harmoniously.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Which element of music refers to the volume or intensity of sound?
- A.
Pitch
- B.
Dynamics
- C.
Tempo
- D.
Timbre
Correct Answer
B. DynamicsExplanation
Dynamics in music refer to the variation in volume or intensity of sound. It encompasses both loudness and softness, enhancing expressiveness and emotional impact. Composers and performers use dynamic markings such as forte (loud) and piano (soft) to convey musical dynamics, adding depth and contrast to compositions.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Which of the following best describes the musical texture known as 'polyphony'?
- A.
Music where one melody is played by one instrument and is the focus of the piece.
- B.
Music that features a single, unaccompanied melodic line without any harmonic accompaniment.
- C.
Music in which two or more independent melodies are played simultaneously.
- D.
Music that focuses on the systematic build-up of sound, usually moving from soft to loud.
Correct Answer
C. Music in which two or more independent melodies are played simultaneously.Explanation
Musical texture refers to how the melodic, rhythmic, and harmonic materials are combined in a composition, thus determining the overall quality of the sound in a piece. Polyphony is one of the key types of texture in music. Option C accurately describes "Polyphony," which involves multiple independent melodies being played together. This texture can be heard in classical compositions from the Renaissance and Baroque periods, such as those by Bach.Rate this question:
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Aug 27, 2024Quiz Edited by
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Sep 07, 2010Quiz Created by
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