MUSC Midterm (jorge) Flashcards
Define Melody
A sequence of musical notes that are perceived as a single, coherent unit.
What is Harmony?
The combination of different musical notes played or sung simultaneously.
Explain Rhythm
The pattern of beats and time values in music.
What is Timbre?
The unique quality or tone color of a musical sound.
Define Texture in music
How different musical lines interact (monophonic, homophonic, polyphonic).
What are Dynamics in music?
The volume of music, including terms such as piano (soft) and forte (loud).
What does Form refer to in music?
The overall structure or plan of a piece of music.
Define Tempo
The speed at which a piece of music is played, measured in beats per minute (BPM).
What are the dates of the Medieval Period?
500–1400.
What characterizes the Renaissance Period?
- Rise of polyphony,
- choral music,
- modal harmony.
What are the key features of the Baroque Period?
Ornamentation, contrast, basso continuo, fugues.
When did the Classical Period occur?
1750–1820.
What is typical of the Romantic Period?
Expressive, emotional, programmatic music.
When is the Modern/20th Century period?
1900–Present.
Who is Johann Sebastian Bach?
Baroque master of counterpoint, fugues, and sacred music.
What is Antonio Vivaldi known for?
Baroque composer known for The Four Seasons.
Who was Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart?
Classical era composer of Piece: Eine kleine Nachtmusik (A Little Night
Music).
What is Josquin des Prez known for?
Renaissance composer known for motets and masses.
Ave Maria… Virgo Serena
Who is Giovanni Palestrina?
Renaissance master of sacred choral music.
Define Monophony
A single melodic line without harmony.
What is Homophony?
A main melody with accompanying chords.
Explain Polyphony
Two or more independent melodic lines sounding simultaneously.
.
.
Define Basso Continuo
A continuous bass line typically played by a harpsichord and cello.
What are Terraced Dynamics?
Sudden shifts in volume rather than gradual changes.
What does Contrast refer to in Baroque music?
Alternation between loud and soft, solo and ensemble.
Define Fugues
A contrapuntal composition where themes are introduced and developed.
What is Program Music?
Music that tells a story or represents an idea.
What is Modal Harmony in Renaissance music?
Use of church modes instead of major/minor tonality.
Explain Polyphony in Renaissance music
Equal melodic lines moving independently.
What does A Cappella Singing mean?
Vocal music without instrumental accompaniment.
What is the balance of Sacred and Secular Music?
Balanced use of both religious and non-religious themes.
Define Word Painting
Musical technique where music reflects the lyrics’ meaning.
What is Imitative Counterpoint?
Melodic phrases repeated across different voices.
What is Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov known for?
Era: Romantic (1827-1900)
Piece: Capriccio espagnol
* * Key Features: Emotional expression, larger
orchestras, dramatic contrasts. Naturist inspiration
What is Igor Stravinsky known for?
Era: modern (1900+)
* * Piece: The Rite of Spring
