AOS1: The Western Classical Tradition (1650-1910)

Question 1

Features of baroque

Answer 1

Ornaments, harpsichord, homophony, polyphony, brass and timpani used occasionally

Question 2

Features of classical

Answer 2

Cadences, balanced phrases

Question 3

Concerto

Answer 3

Written for solo instrument + orchestra

Question 4

Features of romantic music

Answer 4

Longer melodies, wider harmonic and dynamic range

Question 5

1. The Coronation anthems and Oratorios of Handel: vocal features

Answer 5

Full choir, voices used in combinations

Question 6

1. The Coronation anthems and Oratorios of Handel: textures

Answer 6

Homophony, polyphony, octaves, unison

Question 7

1. The Coronation anthems and Oratorios of Handel: instrumentation, melody and tonality

Answer 7

Melodic sequences, brass and percussion (timpani), often major

Question 8

2. The Orchestral music of Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven: features

Answer 8

Classical orchestra layout, balanced phrase lengths, variety of textures, sequences, maybe ornaments, dynamic contrast

Question 9

3. The piano music of Chopin and Schumann: melodic and harmonic textures

Answer 9

Chromatic harmony and melody, many ornaments/ decoration, modulations, pedal notes

Question 10

3. The piano music of Chopin and Schumann: other features

Answer 10

Rubato, longer phrase lengths, detailed articulation

Question 11

4. The Requiem of the late Romantic period: Instrumentation and tonality

Answer 11

Full choir and various combinations of voices, use of church organ, often in minor key

Question 12

4. The Requiem of the late Romantic period: other features

Answer 12

Melisma, large dynamic range and contrast, variety of vocal textures like homophony and octaves