Music Theory Basics
What does a key signature indicate?
→ The key of the music.
Which solfege syllable represents the fifth scale degree?
Sol.
What does a fermata indicate?
Hold the note longer than usual.
What is the correct singing posture?
Standing or sitting tall with relaxed shoulders.
What does D.C. al Fine mean?
Go back to the beginning and sing until the word Fine.
How should you breathe when singing?
Using the diaphragm/deep, controlled breaths.
What is the meaning of “a cappella”?
Singing without instruments.
Which note gets two beats in 4/4 time?
Half note.
In G major, what note is “do”?
G.
What does "D.C. al Fine" mean?
Go back to the beginning and end at the Fine.
What is the purpose of a warm-up?
To prepare the voice and body for singing.
What is the role of the conductor?
To lead and unify the choir.
What is a blend in choir?
Voices sounding unified in tone, volume, and vowel shape.
Who is a famous Classical period composer?
Mozart or Beethoven.
A dotted half note equals how many beats?
Three.
What is the interval between do and sol?
Perfect fifth.
What is a coda?
A separate ending section.
What is appropriate concert attire?
Formal or choir-specific clothing.
You should always bring a __________ to rehearsal to mark your music.
Pencil.
What is legato singing?
Smooth and connected.
What are the main characteristics of music from the Baroque period?
Ornamentation, contrast in dynamics, and use of harpsichord.
What is the time signature for most pop songs?
4/4.
What is “solfege” used for?
Learning pitch and sight-singing.
What does staccato mean?
Short and detached.
What should you do if you lose your place in a piece?
Keep going and try to find your place again.
What does the conductor’s downbeat typically indicate?
The first beat of the measure.
What are good habits for vocal health?
Hydration, proper technique, avoiding vocal strain.
Which period of music is known for emotional expression and larger orchestras?
Romantic period.
What type of note is used for one beat in 4/4?
Quarter note.
The __________ is the scale degree that leads to “do.”
Leading tone (ti).
What is the difference between a tie and a slur?
Tie connects same notes; slur connects different notes.
How do you respond if someone messes up during a concert?
Ignore it and keep performing.
Why is it important to watch the conductor during a performance?
To stay together as an ensemble and follow cues for tempo, dynamics, and entrances.
A __________ voice is often used for higher singing tones.
Head.
What is gospel music, and where did it originate?
A style of Christian music with roots in African American church traditions.
How many sixteenth notes in a quarter note?
Four.
Solfege syllables include: do, re, mi, fa, __________, la, ti.
Sol.
What does “ritardando” mean?
Gradually slowing down.
When do you stop singing in a choral piece?
When the conductor cues the cutoff or the music ends.
What should you do if the conductor changes the tempo during a rehearsal?
Adjust your singing immediately to match the new tempo.
Why is hydration important for vocal health?
It keeps the vocal folds lubricated and prevents strain.
Name a popular vocal genre that emerged in the 20th century.
Jazz, pop, rock, or musical theatre.
What is the musical symbol for repeat?
:||
What syllable comes immediately before “do” when singing descending solfege?
Ti
What does “mf” stand for?
Mezzo forte (moderately loud).
How should your face look while performing?
Engaged and expressive, appropriate to the music.
How does a conductor indicate a cutoff?
With a closing gesture, often circular or pulling motion, usually followed by eye contact.
What is the benefit of using proper vowel shapes while singing?
Improves tone quality, projection, and blend.
What makes a folk song different from a classical piece?
Folk songs are passed down orally and reflect cultural traditions; classical pieces are typically written and composed formally.
What is a whole rest worth?
Four beats.
What is the purpose of using hand signs with solfege syllables?
To visually reinforce pitch relationships and aid in sight-singing.
Smooth and connected is the definition of what term?
Legato
How should consonants be sung in a choir?
Clearly and together.
What is one reason the conductor might stop a rehearsal and repeat a section?
To correct errors, improve timing, blend, or interpretation.
What should you do if your voice feels tired or strained?
Rest your voice, stay hydrated, and avoid speaking or singing loudly.
Why is it important to understand the cultural context of a piece when performing it?
It helps interpret the music more accurately and respectfully.