Music Appreciation Name_____________________________
Exam # 4
1) During the first half of the 20th century, music was a powerful medium that reflected on the
tragedies of war. As a result, music during this period turned into a more introspected,
chaotic, and often, even unenjoyable. Please, mention some of the most important
political, social, or historical events of the first half of the 20th century, both in Europe and
the United States:
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2) General characteristics of the music of the 20th century:
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One characteristic in particular is common to all the styles of academic (concert) music of the 20th
century:
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3) 20th century is known in the arts as the “Era of the isms”. Why? Please, mention some of the styles
of this period (at least 4)
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4) How was Impressionism originated? What gave name to this particular groundbreaking style?
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5) Characteristics of impressionism in music. Circle all that apply:
a. Less use of brass instruments
b. Proportion, balance, and symmetry of the structure of the compositions
c. Use of parallel harmonies
d. Excessive ornamentation
e. Use of coloristic harmonies, to reflect elements like water, clouds, rain
f. Woodwind instruments are predominantly used
g. Monophonic texture
6) What composer is usually associated with the beginnings of the impressionism in music?
a. Frederic Chopin
b. Felix Mendelssohn
c. Claude Debussy
d. Aaron Copland
e. L.v.Beethoven
f. J.S. Bach
g. W.A. Mozart
Bonus Question: George Gershwin, Aaron Copland, and Leonard Bernstein are among the most
notable composers of the 20th century in the US. Please, mention the name of one popular
composition by any of these composers.
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