Unit 2 (Instrumental Music)

Question 1

concerto

Answer 1

• a multi-movement work for soloist(s) and orchestra

- showcases virtuosity of soloist(s)

Question 2

cadenza

Answer 2

• a solo passage heard in a concerto, aria, or any large orchestral work
• often virtuosic in nature
• suggests an improvised style
• usually written out by the composer

Question 3

double stopping

Answer 3

• a string-instrument technique

- 2 parts are produced by playing on 2 strings simultaneously

Question 4

pedal point

Answer 4

• a sustained note over which harmonies change

Question 5

sonata form

Answer 5

• formal structure often used in first movement of sonata cycle
• consists of Exposition, Development, and Recapitulation

Question 6

etude

Answer 6

• French for “study”
• solo instrumental work intended to develop technical facility
• focuses on one or more specific technical challenges

Question 7

thematic transformation

Answer 7

• a basic theme is repeated throughout a work in different guises
• the theme may be changed rhythmically, melodically or harmonically
• unlike a “variation”, the transformed time takes on a new identity in a new context

Question 8

program music

Answer 8

• instrumental music with extra-musical associations

- descriptive title identifies the connection

Question 9

symphonic poem (tone poem)

Answer 9

• one of the most popular forms of orchestral program music
• single movement work, generally in free form, with literary or pictorial associations
• invented by Franz Liszt

Question 10

nationalism (in music)

Answer 10

• important element of 19th-century music
• patriotism expressed through music
• influence of folk song and dance, myths and legends, landscapes, historical events

Question 11

concert overture

Answer 11

• a single movement orchestral work with literary or pictorial associations
• usually in sonata form
• independent concert work