Sample Questions

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Exam Questions

Question 1
The process of composing music spontaneously while playing an instrument is known as
A. improvisation
B. orchestration
C. recital
D. transcription
E. modulation
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Improvisation is the act of creating music spontaneously, often while performing. Orchestration refers to arranging music for an orchestra. A recital is a performance by a soloist or small group. Transcription is the process of adapting a piece of music for a different instrument. Modulation is the change from one key to another within a composition.
Question 2
Which of the following is regarded as a pioneer in American modern dance?
A. Frederick Ashton
B. Sergei Diaghilev
C. Martha Graham
D. Madonna
E. Maria Tallchief
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Martha Graham is widely considered a pioneer of American modern dance, developing a new language of movement. Frederick Ashton was a British ballet choreographer. Sergei Diaghilev was a Russian impresario, not a dancer. Madonna is a pop singer. Maria Tallchief was a renowned ballerina.
Question 3
The term “crescendo” indicates
A. a gradual increase in volume
B. the loudest section of a symphony
C. the dramatic climax of an opera
D. the highest note of a melody
E. an ascending scale pattern
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Crescendo is a standard musical term meaning a gradual increase in loudness. It is not specific to the loudest section, an opera's climax, a high note, or a scale pattern.
Question 4
Traditional Japanese dramatic theater typically accompanied by music is known as which of the following?
A. Noh
B. Odori
C. Haiku
D. Origami
E. Kata
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Noh is a major form of classical Japanese dance-drama known for its stylized performance and use of masks and music. Odori is a type of Japanese dance. Haiku is a form of poetry. Origami is the art of paper folding. Kata refers to detailed choreographed patterns of movements in martial arts.
Question 5
The music that begins a theatrical performance is known as the
A. overture
B. opener
C. segue
D. point of attack
E. set piece
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: An overture is a musical introduction to a performance, often an opera or musical, that sets the tone and introduces thematic material. 'Opener' is not a standard theatrical term. A segue is a transition. 'Point of attack' is a dramatic term for the moment the main conflict begins. A set piece is a self-contained scene or a constructed part of the stage scenery.