A Quiz To Test Your Knowledge On Orchestral Sheet Music
Sheet music is the lifeblood of musicians performing an orchestra. Without sheet music, no orchestra can even begin to play an instrument. The following quiz contains basic questions regarding the specific instructions given through sheet music. Take the Quiz and Test how well you remember sheet music's specific intricacies.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
The distance between two notes....
- A.
Octave
- B.
Dolce
- C.
Forte
- D.
Interval
Correct Answer
D. IntervalExplanation
The distance between two notes refers to the interval between them. An interval in music is the difference in pitch between two notes, and it can be measured in terms of steps or half steps. It determines the relationship and the sound quality between the two notes. The other options, octave, dolce, and forte, are not specifically related to the distance between notes, making "interval" the correct answer.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Fast, quick tempo
- A.
Staccato
- B.
Allegro
- C.
Andante
Correct Answer
B. AllegroExplanation
The term "allegro" refers to a fast and lively tempo in music. It indicates that the piece should be played at a quick pace, creating a sense of energy and excitement. In contrast, "staccato" refers to a style of playing where the notes are short and detached. "Andante" is a tempo marking that suggests a moderate, walking pace. Therefore, "allegro" is the correct answer because it best describes a fast tempo, which matches the given phrase "fast, quick tempo."Rate this question:
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- 3.
Staccato is short bowings.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Staccato refers to a style of playing musical notes in a short and detached manner. It involves using a short bowing technique on stringed instruments to produce distinct and separate notes. Therefore, the statement that "Staccato is short bowings" is true, as staccato technique does involve short bowings.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Indicates the number of beats per measure and what type of note gets one beat
- A.
Time signature
- B.
Mezzo
- C.
Ritardando
- D.
Crescendo
Correct Answer
A. Time signatureExplanation
The time signature in music indicates the number of beats per measure and what type of note gets one beat. It is represented by two numbers stacked on top of each other, with the top number indicating the number of beats per measure and the bottom number indicating the type of note that receives one beat. For example, a time signature of 4/4 means there are four beats per measure and a quarter note receives one beat. The time signature is crucial in determining the rhythm and structure of a musical piece.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which describes andante tempo
- A.
Fast
- B.
Very slow
- C.
Moderate
- D.
Walking speed
Correct Answer
D. Walking speedExplanation
Andante is a musical term that indicates a moderate tempo. It is often described as a walking speed, which means it is neither fast nor slow. This tempo allows for a steady and comfortable pace, similar to the speed at which a person would walk. Therefore, the answer "walking speed" accurately describes the andante tempo.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The 8th tone above a given pitch
- A.
Fermata
- B.
Diminuendo
- C.
Octave
- D.
Andante
Correct Answer
C. OctaveExplanation
The correct answer is "octave." An octave is the interval between one musical pitch and another with double its frequency. In other words, it is the 8th note above a given pitch. This means that if you start on a specific note and move up an octave, you will reach the same note but with a higher pitch. Therefore, octave is the correct answer in this context.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Half, medium
- A.
Mezzo
- B.
Interval
- C.
Cut time
- D.
Arpeggio
Correct Answer
A. MezzoExplanation
The answer "mezzo" is correct because it is an Italian musical term that means "half" or "medium." In music, it is often used as a prefix to indicate a moderate or medium level of something, such as "mezzo piano" meaning moderately soft. Therefore, "mezzo" is the appropriate term in this context as it aligns with the other musical terms listed in the question.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Moderate tempo
- A.
Arco
- B.
Moderato
- C.
D.s. al fine
- D.
Flat
Correct Answer
B. ModeratoExplanation
The correct answer is "moderato." Moderato is a musical term that indicates a moderate tempo, neither too fast nor too slow. It is often used as a tempo marking in sheet music to guide the performer on how to play the piece. In this context, "moderato" is the correct answer because it is the only option related to tempo, while the other options are unrelated or incorrect.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Pizzicato
- A.
Pluck
- B.
Bow
- C.
Get louder
- D.
Get softer
Correct Answer
A. PluckExplanation
Pizzicato is a technique used in playing stringed instruments where the strings are plucked instead of being bowed. This technique produces a distinct sound and is often used to create a percussive effect. Therefore, the correct answer is "pluck."Rate this question:
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- 10.
Gradually get louder
- A.
Crescendo
- B.
Concerto
- C.
Piano
- D.
D. c.
Correct Answer
A. CrescendoExplanation
The term "crescendo" refers to a gradual increase in volume or intensity in music. It is often used as a dynamic marking to indicate that the music should gradually get louder. In contrast, "concerto" refers to a musical composition for a solo instrument accompanied by an orchestra, "piano" refers to playing softly, and "d.c." is an abbreviation for "dal segno," which means to go back to a specific point in the music. Therefore, the correct answer is "crescendo" because it best fits the description of gradually getting louder.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Hold, pause
- A.
Ledger lines
- B.
Natural
- C.
Diminuendo
- D.
Fermata
Correct Answer
D. FermataExplanation
A fermata is a musical symbol that indicates a pause or hold on a note or rest. It is placed above or below the note and is typically held for a longer duration than the note value indicates. The fermata allows the performer to hold the note or rest longer than the written duration, adding a sense of expression or emphasis to the music. It is often used in solo or ensemble performances to create dramatic pauses or to highlight certain musical moments.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Gradually getting slower
- A.
Cut time
- B.
Ritardando
- C.
Divisi
- D.
Meno
- E.
Hooked bows
Correct Answer
B. RitardandoExplanation
The correct answer is "ritardando". Ritardando is a musical term that indicates a gradual slowing down of the tempo. It is often used by composers to create a sense of deceleration or a more relaxed pace in the music. In this context, the term "gradually getting slower" aligns perfectly with the definition of ritardando. The other options provided, such as "cut time," "divisi," "meno," and "hooked bows," do not relate to the concept of slowing down the tempo.Rate this question:
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- 13.
2 or more different detached notes played in 1 single bow stroke, hooked together in a single bow motion
- A.
Staccato
- B.
Legato
- C.
Hooked bow
Correct Answer
C. Hooked bowExplanation
The correct answer is "hooked bow." This term refers to the technique of playing two or more different detached notes in one single bow stroke, where the notes are connected or hooked together in a single bow motion. This technique allows for a smooth and connected sound between the notes, creating a legato effect. Staccato, on the other hand, refers to playing short and detached notes, while legato refers to playing smoothly and connected. Therefore, the term "hooked bow" best describes the given explanation.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Legato is short bow strokes
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement "Legato is short bow strokes" is incorrect. Legato is actually a musical term that refers to playing smoothly and connected, without any breaks or pauses between the notes. It is often achieved by using longer bow strokes and ensuring a seamless transition between the notes. Therefore, the correct answer is False.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Gradually getting softer
- A.
Dolce
- B.
Diminuendo
- C.
Marcato
- D.
Forte
Correct Answer
B. DiminuendoExplanation
Diminuendo is the correct answer because it means gradually getting softer in music notation. Dolce means sweet, marcato means emphasized, and forte means loud. Therefore, diminuendo is the only term that accurately describes the gradual decrease in volume.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Forte means loud
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The given statement is true. The word "forte" is derived from Italian and it means "loud" or "strong" in music terminology. It is used to indicate that a particular section or passage should be played or sung loudly. Therefore, the correct answer is true.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Da Capo- Return to the beginning
- A.
D.C.
- B.
D.S al fine
- C.
Triplet
- D.
Concerto
Correct Answer
A. D.C.Explanation
D.C. stands for Da Capo, which means "from the beginning" in Italian. It is a musical term used to instruct the performer to go back to the beginning of the piece and play it again. This instruction is commonly seen in sheet music and is used to indicate that the performer should repeat the music from the start.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Soft, quiet
- A.
Meno
- B.
Sharp
- C.
Dolce
- D.
Piano
Correct Answer
D. PianoExplanation
The given words "soft, quiet, meno, sharp, dolce" are all musical terms that describe the dynamics or character of a musical piece. "Piano" is also a musical term that means to play softly. Therefore, "piano" is the correct answer as it fits with the other words in terms of musical terminology.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Dolce
- A.
Sweet
- B.
Loud
- C.
Quiet
- D.
Vibrato
Correct Answer
A. SweetExplanation
The word "Dolce" is an Italian musical term that means "sweetly" or "sweet." It is often used as a musical direction to indicate a soft and sweet style of playing. The other words listed, such as loud, quiet, and vibrato, are musical terms that describe different aspects of sound and technique, but they do not relate to the meaning of "Dolce." Therefore, the correct answer is "sweet."Rate this question:
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- 20.
A piece for soloists and orchestra
- A.
Con sordino
- B.
Allegro
- C.
Fermata
- D.
Concerto
Correct Answer
D. ConcertoExplanation
A concerto is a musical composition that features one or more soloists accompanied by an orchestra. It is typically written in multiple movements and showcases the virtuosity and skill of the soloists. The term "concerto" is often used to describe a piece that highlights the contrast and interplay between the soloists and the orchestra. In this context, the other terms such as "con sordino" (with mutes), "allegro" (fast tempo), and "fermata" (a pause or hold) could be elements or instructions within the concerto itself.Rate this question:
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- 21.
With a mute
- A.
Con sordino
- B.
Forte
- C.
Detache
- D.
Divisi
Correct Answer
A. Con sordinoExplanation
The correct answer is "con sordino." "Con sordino" is an Italian musical term that means "with mute." Muting an instrument involves using a device, such as a mute or a dampening cloth, to alter the sound produced. This technique is often used in orchestral and chamber music to create a softer and more muted tone.Rate this question:
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- 22.
2/4 time
- A.
D.s. al fine
- B.
Arpeggio
- C.
Cut time
Correct Answer
C. Cut timeExplanation
Cut time, also known as 2/2 time, is a musical meter where there are two beats per measure and a half note receives one beat. It is often represented by a "C" with a vertical line through it. This meter is commonly used in fast-paced music and gives a feeling of a brisk tempo. In contrast, 2/4 time, which is not the correct answer, has two beats per measure but a quarter note receives one beat. Therefore, the correct answer is cut time, not 2/4 time.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Play with the bow
- A.
Flat
- B.
Arco
- C.
Marcato
- D.
Pizzicato
Correct Answer
B. ArcoExplanation
The term "arco" refers to playing with a bow on a string instrument such as a violin or cello. This is in contrast to other techniques such as "pizzicato" which involves plucking the strings. "Flat," "marcato," and "pizzicato" are all different playing styles or techniques, but only "arco" specifically refers to using a bow.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Less
- A.
Natural
- B.
Cut time
- C.
Meno
- D.
Detache
Correct Answer
C. Meno -
- 25.
Dal Segno- repeat from the sign until the end
- A.
Triplet
- B.
Piano
- C.
D.C.
- D.
D.S. al fine
Correct Answer
D. D.S. al fineExplanation
D.S. al fine is an instruction in music notation that means to go back to the sign and play until the word "fine" is reached, which indicates the end of the piece. In this context, it suggests that after playing the section marked with Dal Segno (D.S.), the musician should continue from the sign and play until the end of the piece. The other options, triplet and piano, are musical terms that indicate specific playing techniques or dynamics, but they do not relate to the instruction of going back to the sign and playing until the end.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Notes in a chord that are played separately
- A.
Marcato
- B.
Arpeggio
- C.
Ledger lines
Correct Answer
B. ArpeggioExplanation
An arpeggio is a musical technique where the notes of a chord are played separately, rather than simultaneously. This creates a flowing and melodic effect, as each note is given its own distinct sound. The other options, marcato and ledger lines, do not pertain to playing chords separately. Marcato refers to a style of playing where notes are emphasized and accented, while ledger lines are used to notate notes that are outside the range of the staff. Therefore, the correct answer is arpeggio.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Lines placed above or below the staff for pitches beyond the range of the staff
- A.
Ledger lines
- B.
Lines
- C.
Ritardando
- D.
Andante
Correct Answer
A. Ledger linesExplanation
Ledger lines are used to extend the range of the staff, allowing for pitches that are above or below the staff lines. They are short lines that are added above or below the staff, and they indicate the pitch of the notes that fall outside the normal range. Ledger lines ensure that all notes can be accurately represented on the staff, regardless of their position on the musical scale.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Raises a note by a half step
- A.
Arpeggio
- B.
Flat
- C.
Natural
- D.
Sharp
Correct Answer
D. SharpExplanation
The term "sharp" in music refers to raising a note by a half step. In Western music notation, a sharp symbol (♯) is used to indicate this alteration. When a note is played or sung sharp, it is slightly higher in pitch compared to its natural state. This alteration can be applied to any note, changing it from a natural or flat note to a sharp note.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Lowers a note by a half step
- A.
Sharp
- B.
Flat
- C.
Natural
Correct Answer
B. FlatExplanation
The term "flat" refers to lowering a note by a half step. In music theory, a half step is the smallest interval between two adjacent notes. When a note is "flattened," it means that it is being shifted down by one half step, resulting in a lower pitch. This is in contrast to "sharp," which refers to raising a note by a half step. The term "natural" is used to indicate that a note is neither sharp nor flat, and is played at its original pitch.Rate this question:
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- 30.
A musical symbol that cancels out a previous flat or sharp
- A.
Mezzo
- B.
Marcato
- C.
Natural
Correct Answer
C. NaturalExplanation
The correct answer is "natural." A natural symbol cancels out a previous flat or sharp, returning the note to its original pitch. It is used to override any previous accidentals and indicate that a note should be played on the white key of a piano.Rate this question:
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- 31.
A group of three equal notes performed in the time of 2 of two of the same kind
- A.
Triplet
- B.
Divisi
- C.
Detache
- D.
Key signature
Correct Answer
A. TripletExplanation
The correct answer is "triplet" because it refers to a group of three equal notes that are performed in the time of two of the same kind. In music notation, triplets are indicated by a number 3 above or below the group of notes, indicating that they should be played in a shorter duration than regular notes. This technique is commonly used to create rhythmic variations and add interest to a musical piece.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Divided musical parts
- A.
Detache
- B.
Mezzo
- C.
Divisi
Correct Answer
C. DivisiExplanation
Divisi refers to the technique in music where a section of instruments or voices is divided into two or more groups, each playing or singing a different part. This technique is commonly used in orchestral or choral music to create a richer and more complex sound. The other terms mentioned, detache and mezzo, do not specifically relate to dividing musical parts.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Detached
- A.
Meno
- B.
Detache
Correct Answer
B. DetacheExplanation
The correct answer is "Detache". The word "detache" is a musical term that refers to a technique in which each note is played separately and distinctly. It is often used in violin or piano music to create a detached and staccato sound. The other options provided, "Detached" and "Meno", do not have any relevance to the given question and are incorrect.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Emphasized, heavily accented
- A.
Pizzacato
- B.
Marcato
- C.
Meno
- D.
Ledger lines
Correct Answer
B. MarcatoExplanation
The term "marcato" refers to a musical instruction that indicates a note or a series of notes should be played with emphasis or accentuation. It is often described as a heavy accent or an emphasized attack on the note. In this context, "emphasized, heavily accented" is a description that closely aligns with the meaning of "marcato". The other terms mentioned in the question, such as "pizzacato", "meno", and "ledger lines", are unrelated to the concept of marcato.Rate this question:
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- 35.
How many sharps in G major
Correct Answer
1
one
OneExplanation
The question is asking for the number of sharps in the key of G major. In music theory, the key of G major has one sharp, which is F#. Therefore, the correct answer is 1, one, or One.Rate this question:
- 36.
What sharps are in g major
Correct Answer
f sharp
F sharp
F#
f#Explanation
The correct answer is f sharp, F sharp, F#, f#. This is because G major has one sharp in its key signature, which is F sharp. In music notation, sharps are represented by the symbol "#". Therefore, all the variations of F sharp (f sharp, F sharp, F#, f#) are correct answers for the question.Rate this question:
- 37.
What scale has 3 sharps?
Correct Answer
A major
a
A
a majorExplanation
The scale that has 3 sharps is A major. In music theory, the key of A major has three sharps: F#, C#, and G#. These sharps are indicated in the key signature at the beginning of the staff. The other options mentioned, "a" and "a major," are not correct as they do not specify the correct number of sharps.Rate this question:
- 38.
No sharps or flats
- A.
C major
- B.
G major
- C.
F major
- D.
D major
Correct Answer
A. C majorExplanation
The correct answer is C major because it is the only option that does not have any sharps or flats. In music theory, the key of C major is considered to be the simplest key as it consists of only natural notes (no sharps or flats). This key is often used as a starting point for beginners in music as it provides a clear and straightforward foundation for understanding musical concepts and scales.Rate this question:
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- 39.
B flat
- A.
C major
- B.
Bb major
- C.
E major
- D.
F major
Correct Answer
D. F majorExplanation
The answer is F major because it is the only major key among the given options. B flat, C major, Bb major, and E major are all different keys, but only F major is a major key.Rate this question:
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- 40.
2 flats
- A.
Bb major
- B.
F major
- C.
D major
- D.
G major
Correct Answer
A. Bb majorExplanation
The correct answer is Bb major because it is the only major key among the given options. The other options, F major, D major, and G major, are also major keys, but they are not the correct answer.Rate this question:
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(3).jpg "The distance between two notes....")
(3).jpg "Fast, quick tempo")
(2).jpg "Staccato is short bowings.")
.jpg "Indicates the number of beats per measure and what type of note gets one beat")
(48).jpg "Which describes andante tempo")
(64).jpg "The 8th tone above a given pitch")
(57).jpg "Half, medium")
(57).jpg "Moderate tempo")
(52).jpg "Pizzicato")
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Mar 21, 2023Quiz Edited by
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May 29, 2011Quiz Created by
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