Advanced Musical Terms
What is the term for a piece of music written in two or more keys at the same time?
Polytonality
Which instrument in the band has the lowest written range?
Tuba
What is the proper way to adjust intonation when sharp on a brass instrument?
Pull out the tuning slide.
What is the term for the speed at which sound waves travel through air?
Speed of sound, approximately 343 m/s at room temperature
What famous film composer wrote the scores for Star Wars, Jaws, and Harry Potter?
John Williams
What does "subito" mean when added to a dynamic marking?
Suddenly
What key is the alto saxophone pitched in?
E-flat
For woodwind instruments, what adjustment can help eliminate squeaking on a reed?
Properly place the reed and ensure correct embouchure
What is the frequency of the A4 pitch commonly used to tune instruments?
440 Hz
Which pop artist’s song features the melody of Pachelbel’s Canon in D?
"Memories" by Maroon 5
What is the term for a rhythm that implies a different meter than the written time signature?
Hemiola
Which percussion instrument produces a definite pitch: snare drum, marimba, or cymbals?
Marimba
In ensemble playing, why is it important to listen more to the bass line than your own part?
The bass line provides harmonic and rhythmic grounding for the ensemble.
What scientific principle explains how a brass instrument amplifies sound through its tubing?
Resonance
What jazz musician is often referred to as the “Father of Bebop”?
Charlie Parker
What is the difference between a ritardando and a rallentando?
Ritardando implies a gradual slowing with a controlled tempo, while rallentando often feels more dramatic and drawn out.
What is the transposition for a B-flat clarinet playing a written C?
It sounds a B-flat.
What is the term for matching the volume, tone, and pitch in a section?
Blend
What is the name of the phenomenon where two similar frequencies create a pulsating effect?
Beats
Which movie features a high school marching band performing Earth, Wind & Fire’s “September”?
Drumline
What is the meaning of "agogic accent"?
Emphasis achieved by prolonging the duration of a note.
Which string instrument is sometimes included in concert bands, even though it’s not standard?
String bass
When conducting, how does a conductor indicate a fermata?
Hold the beat pattern still, then cue the release.
What determines the timbre of a musical instrument?
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ChatGPT can make mistakes. Check important info.The harmonic overtones
What Broadway musical includes the song “One Day More,” featuring a choir-like ensemble performance?
Les Misérables