Baroque

Question 1

Baroque time frame

Answer 1

1600-1750

Question 2

What is a harpsichord?

Answer 2

A piano-like instrument but usually an octave higher

The harpsichord produces sound by plucking strings, unlike the piano which strikes strings with hammers.

Question 3

Define polyphonic music.

Answer 3

A device of music with many voices or sounds

Polyphony involves multiple independent melodies played simultaneously.

Question 4

What is ground bass?

Answer 4

A short melody repeated by the bass part throughout a piece

Ground bass serves as the foundational element of a musical composition.

Question 5

Define basso continuo.

Answer 5

A continuous bass line with improvised harmonies

Basso continuo is a key feature of Baroque music, providing harmonic support.

Question 6

What is a canon in music?

Answer 6

A part of a piece of music that is repeated after a short delay

Canons create a polyphonic texture by imitating a melody at different times.

Question 7

The style of Baroque music was…

Answer 7

Energetic, elaborate, grand, complicated harmonies, polyphonic textures (more than one melody played at the same time), ground bass

Question 8

Baroque instruments;

Answer 8

Violins invented, strings dominated the orchestra, harpsichord and organ used (no piano)