Musical Form

Question 1

Form

Answer 1

the organizing principle in music; its basic elements are repetition, contrast, and variation.

Question 2

Repetition

Answer 2

A compositional technique whereby a passage or section is restated.

Question 3

Contrast

Answer 3

Use of opposing musical elements to emphasize difference and variety.

Question 4

Strophic Form

Answer 4

Song structure in which the same music is repeated with every stanza (strophe) of the poem.

Question 5

Variation

Answer 5

The compositional procedure of altering a pre-existing musical idea. See also theme and variations.

Question 6

Binary Form

Answer 6

Two-part (A-B) form with each section normally repeated. Also two-part form.

Question 7

Ternary Form

Answer 7

Three-part (A-B-A) form based on a statement (A), contrast or departure (B), and repetition (A). Also three-part form.

Question 8

Theme

Answer 8

Melodic idea used as a basic building block in the construction of a composition. Also subject.

Question 9

Thematic Development

Answer 9

Musical expansion of a theme by varying its melodic outline, harmony, or rhythm. Also thematic transformation.

Question 10

Sequence

Answer 10

Restatement of an idea or motive at a different pitch level.

Question 11

Motive

Answer 11

Short melodic or rhythmic idea; the smallest fragment of a theme that forms a melodic-harmonic-rhythmic unit.

Question 12

Call and Response

Answer 12

Performance style with a singing leader who is imitated by a chorus of followers. Also responsorial singing.

Question 13

Responsorial

Answer 13

Singing, especially in Gregorian chant, in which a soloist or a group of soloists alternates with the choir. See also call-and-response.

Question 14

Ostinato

Answer 14

A short melodic, rhythmic, or harmonic pattern that is repeated throughout a work or a section of one.

Question 15

Movement

Answer 15

Complete, self-contained part within a larger musical work.