Score Reading Qualities

Question 1

Rubato

Answer 1

Fluctuates between fast and slow tempo.

Question 2

Fermata

Answer 2

Notes held longer.

Question 3

Ritenuto

Answer 3

Reduction of speed.

Question 4

Accelerando

Answer 4

Gradual increase in speed/tempo.

Question 5

Ritardando

Answer 5

Gradual decrease in speed/tempo.

Question 6

Rallentando

Answer 6

Slowing down of tempo.

Question 7

Slur

Answer 7

Connects different notes together.

Question 8

Tie

Answer 8

Connects the same notes together.

Question 9

Accent

Answer 9

Play a note or beat with emphasis.

Question 10

Staccato

Answer 10

Sharp, detached and/or separated note.

Question 11

Tremolo

Answer 11

The rapid repetition of a musical tone or of alternating tones to produce a rapid wavering sound.

Question 12

Tenuto

Answer 12

Hold or sustain a note.

Question 13

Crescendo

Answer 13

When the sound of a note increases.

Question 14

Decrescendo

Answer 14

When the sound of a note increases.

Question 15

Double Bar Line.

Answer 15

Two single bar lines drawn close together indicate the start of a new section.

Question 16

Tempo/speed indication (Allegro Modestoso = 72)

Answer 16

This can be as well as or instead of a metronome mark representing how many beats per minute.

Question 17

Clef

Answer 17

Represents the pitch of a written note.

Question 18

Accidental

Answer 18

Indicates the raising/lowering of a note.

Question 19

Key signature

Answer 19

Flats or sharps that indicate the key of of a composition.