Compositional Features

Question 1

Sequence

Answer 1

Melody repeated at a higher or lower pitch

Question 2

Repetition

Answer 2

Melody / rhythm repeated by same instrument

Question 3

Fugal writing

Answer 3

Polyphonic composition in two or more parts. Built on a main theme

Question 4

Canonic writing

Answer 4

Strict imitation at a fixed distance

Question 5

Ostinato

Answer 5

Repeated melody / motif / rhythmic figure throughout

Question 6

Antiphony

Answer 6

Call and response

Question 7

Scale / scalic writing

Answer 7

Series of notes ascending or descending by step

Question 8

Arpeggio/Broken chord

Answer 8

Notes of the chord played in succession instead of together

Question 9

Alberti Bass

Answer 9

Left hand piano style of broken chords

Question 10

Block chord

Answer 10

Chord notes played together simultaneously

Question 11

Dissonance

Answer 11

Combining notes of a chord with a clash

Question 12

Concordant

Answer 12

Opposite of dissonance/discordant. Combination of notes which are ‘agreeable’ to the ear

Question 13

Syncopation

Answer 13

Off beat rhythm. Emphasis on the weaker beats

Question 14

Pedal note

Answer 14

Note held or repeated over several bars while harmony surrounding it might change

Question 15

Countermelody / Counterpoint

Answer 15

A melody playing simultaneously to the main melody but which contrasts rhythmically

Question 16

Stretto

Answer 16

Overlapping of different entries of a theme / subject. Also means quickening of tempo near end of piece