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Questions and Answers
What is the correct definition of 'symphonic (tone) poem'?
What is the correct definition of 'symphonic (tone) poem'?
A one-movement work for orchestra that gives musical expression to the emotions and events associated with a story, play, political event, or personal experience.
What is meant by 'diminution'?
What is meant by 'diminution'?
A reduction, usually by half, of all the rhythmic durations in a melody.
What is an 'ophicleide'?
What is an 'ophicleide'?
An early form of the tuba.
Identify the incorrect statement about Berlioz's 'idée fixe.'
Identify the incorrect statement about Berlioz's 'idée fixe.'
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What is program music?
What is program music?
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What is a correct description of 'absolute music'?
What is a correct description of 'absolute music'?
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Which instrument is a low oboe?
Which instrument is a low oboe?
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What is the correct definition of 'col legno'?
What is the correct definition of 'col legno'?
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Which statement best describes the Dies irae?
Which statement best describes the Dies irae?
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In the eighteenth century, ballet was seen as too frivolous a spectacle to be in the same program as an opera seria.
In the eighteenth century, ballet was seen as too frivolous a spectacle to be in the same program as an opera seria.
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What is the cornet?
What is the cornet?
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Which statement about Berlioz's family background and education is INCORRECT?
Which statement about Berlioz's family background and education is INCORRECT?
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Which statement about Berlioz is most accurate?
Which statement about Berlioz is most accurate?
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Which statement about Berlioz is NOT accurate?
Which statement about Berlioz is NOT accurate?
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In The Nutcracker, how does Tchaikovsky evoke the dancing shepherds that young Clara encounters in China?
In The Nutcracker, how does Tchaikovsky evoke the dancing shepherds that young Clara encounters in China?
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Which composer is notable for resisting the allure of program music?
Which composer is notable for resisting the allure of program music?
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Musical nationalism was expressed through:
Musical nationalism was expressed through:
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Which of the following typically did NOT convey national color in music?
Which of the following typically did NOT convey national color in music?
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Which country was one of the first to develop its own national style of art music that was distinct from the European tradition?
Which country was one of the first to develop its own national style of art music that was distinct from the European tradition?
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Which country's traditions of orchestral music dominated instrumental composition during the nineteenth century?
Which country's traditions of orchestral music dominated instrumental composition during the nineteenth century?
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Who is considered the most original composer of the Russian Five?
Who is considered the most original composer of the Russian Five?
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What is the purpose of the Promenade theme in Picture?
What is the purpose of the Promenade theme in Picture?
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Study Notes
Definitions and Terminology
- Symphonic (Tone) Poem: A one-movement orchestral work expressing emotions and events related to a story, play, or personal experience.
- Diminution: A technique involving a reduction of all rhythmic durations in a melody, typically by half.
- Ophicleide: An early brass instrument, a precursor to the tuba.
- Idée Fixe: A recurring theme in Berlioz's music, associated with "the beloved," altered in each movement of "Symphonie fantastique," but not always played by the oboe.
- Program Music: Instrumental music designed to evoke imagery or emotions from an external source such as a story or historical event.
- Absolute Music: Instrumental music that is independent of any narrative or program.
Instruments and Their Characteristics
- English Horn: A low oboe characterized by a rich and mellow tone.
- Cornet: A brass instrument with valves, commonly found in military bands.
- Col Legno: A string technique where the bow strikes the strings with its wood rather than the horsehair.
Historical Insights
- Dies Irae: A medieval burial hymn from the thirteenth century, often used in music and film to invoke horror, and treated irreverently in "Symphonie fantastique."
- Ballet and Opera Seria: In the eighteenth century, ballet was not considered too frivolous to be paired with opera seria; that perception is incorrect.
- Berlioz's Education: Lacked early musical training and met his future wife while not studying piano with her father; he was primarily educated in sciences and literature.
Berlioz's Contributions and Character
- Orchestration: Noted for his innovative use of instruments, favoring large orchestras and experimenting with new sounds.
- Influence on Music: Wrote an important treatise on instrumentation still referenced in conservatories today.
- Travel and Recognition: Despite traveling across Europe, his music initially received little appreciation in France.
Musical Nationalism and Style
- Expression of Nationalism: Expressed through national anthems, native dances, protest songs, and victory symphonies.
- Non-Conveyance of National Color: Major and minor scales generally do not convey national identity, unlike folksongs and dance rhythms.
- Distinct National Styles: Russia was among the first to develop a unique national style in art music, diverging from European traditions.
Notable Composers
- Brahms: Known for resisting program music, focusing instead on traditional forms.
- Musorgsky: Considered the most original member of the Russian Five, contributing significantly to the development of national music styles.
Contextual Musical Analysis
- Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker": Uses flutes to represent the exotic dancing shepherds in China, showcasing the ability to create vivid musical imagery.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
Test your knowledge with these flashcards from MUS 1030 Part 5, Chapter 18. This chapter covers important terms and definitions related to orchestral music, including symphonic poems and musical techniques. Perfect for students looking to reinforce their understanding of key concepts in music theory.