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Question 1 of 30
1. Question
During a counterpoint analysis session at Heisei College of Music, a student is examining a four-part chorale harmonization. The progression under scrutiny moves from a dominant seventh chord in second inversion (V6/5) to a tonic chord (I) in a major key. The student must identify which of the following resolutions of the soprano voice, given a specific bass line and tenor voice movement, would be considered the most stylistically appropriate according to the rigorous part-writing standards emphasized in Heisei College of Music’s curriculum. Assume the tenor voice correctly resolves the leading tone upwards by step, and the bass voice moves from the fifth of the dominant chord to the root of the tonic chord.
Correct
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of harmonic progression and voice leading within a contrapuntal context, as taught at Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it tests the ability to identify a resolution that adheres to strict part-writing rules, particularly concerning the avoidance of parallel perfect intervals and the proper handling of leading tones and dissonances. Consider a chorale harmonization exercise where a composer is tasked with moving from a dominant seventh chord in second inversion (V6/5) to a tonic chord (I). The progression is typically from a C major dominant seventh chord in second inversion (G7/B) to a C major tonic chord. The V6/5 chord in C major is G7/B, with the notes G, B, D, F. The tonic chord (I) in C major is C, E, G. Let’s analyze a common voice-leading scenario for this progression: Chord 1 (V6/5 – G7/B): – Soprano: F (leading tone to G, or 7th of the chord) – Alto: D (5th of the chord) – Tenor: B (root of the chord, but in inversion) – Bass: G (5th of the chord, in inversion) To resolve to C major (C, E, G): – The Bass moves from G to C (root). – The Soprano, being the 7th of the dominant seventh chord (F), typically resolves down by step to the 3rd of the tonic chord (E). – The Alto, holding the 5th (D), can move to the root (C) or the 5th (G) of the tonic chord. – The Tenor, holding the root (B), must resolve up by step to the tonic (C) to avoid parallel octaves with the bass and to properly resolve the leading tone. Therefore, a correct resolution would be: – Bass: G -> C – Soprano: F -> E – Alto: D -> C (or G) – Tenor: B -> C This results in the tonic chord C-E-G, with the possibility of doubling the root or the 5th. Now let’s consider the incorrect options and why they violate Heisei College of Music’s stringent part-writing standards: – Parallel fifths between the Alto and Bass (e.g., Alto D to G, Bass G to C) would be incorrect if the Alto moved D to G and the Bass moved G to C, creating parallel fifths. – Parallel octaves between the Soprano and Bass (e.g., Soprano F to E, Bass G to C) would be incorrect if the Soprano moved F to E and the Bass moved G to C, creating parallel octaves. – Incorrect resolution of the leading tone (B) would occur if it did not move to C. For instance, if the Tenor (B) moved to E, it would create a diminished fifth with the Soprano (F to E) and an awkward leap. – Incorrect resolution of the seventh (F) would occur if it did not move down by step to E. For instance, if the Soprano (F) moved to G, it would create parallel octaves with the Bass if the Bass moved G to C and the Tenor B to C. The question asks for the resolution that *most* adheres to these principles. The correct resolution involves the leading tone (B) ascending to the tonic (C), the seventh (F) descending to the third (E), and the bass moving to the tonic root (C). The remaining voice (Alto) can then fill in the chord appropriately, often moving to the tonic root (C) or the fifth (G). The correct answer is the option that demonstrates this proper voice leading, specifically the resolution of the leading tone upwards and the seventh downwards, avoiding forbidden parallels.
Incorrect
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of harmonic progression and voice leading within a contrapuntal context, as taught at Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it tests the ability to identify a resolution that adheres to strict part-writing rules, particularly concerning the avoidance of parallel perfect intervals and the proper handling of leading tones and dissonances. Consider a chorale harmonization exercise where a composer is tasked with moving from a dominant seventh chord in second inversion (V6/5) to a tonic chord (I). The progression is typically from a C major dominant seventh chord in second inversion (G7/B) to a C major tonic chord. The V6/5 chord in C major is G7/B, with the notes G, B, D, F. The tonic chord (I) in C major is C, E, G. Let’s analyze a common voice-leading scenario for this progression: Chord 1 (V6/5 – G7/B): – Soprano: F (leading tone to G, or 7th of the chord) – Alto: D (5th of the chord) – Tenor: B (root of the chord, but in inversion) – Bass: G (5th of the chord, in inversion) To resolve to C major (C, E, G): – The Bass moves from G to C (root). – The Soprano, being the 7th of the dominant seventh chord (F), typically resolves down by step to the 3rd of the tonic chord (E). – The Alto, holding the 5th (D), can move to the root (C) or the 5th (G) of the tonic chord. – The Tenor, holding the root (B), must resolve up by step to the tonic (C) to avoid parallel octaves with the bass and to properly resolve the leading tone. Therefore, a correct resolution would be: – Bass: G -> C – Soprano: F -> E – Alto: D -> C (or G) – Tenor: B -> C This results in the tonic chord C-E-G, with the possibility of doubling the root or the 5th. Now let’s consider the incorrect options and why they violate Heisei College of Music’s stringent part-writing standards: – Parallel fifths between the Alto and Bass (e.g., Alto D to G, Bass G to C) would be incorrect if the Alto moved D to G and the Bass moved G to C, creating parallel fifths. – Parallel octaves between the Soprano and Bass (e.g., Soprano F to E, Bass G to C) would be incorrect if the Soprano moved F to E and the Bass moved G to C, creating parallel octaves. – Incorrect resolution of the leading tone (B) would occur if it did not move to C. For instance, if the Tenor (B) moved to E, it would create a diminished fifth with the Soprano (F to E) and an awkward leap. – Incorrect resolution of the seventh (F) would occur if it did not move down by step to E. For instance, if the Soprano (F) moved to G, it would create parallel octaves with the Bass if the Bass moved G to C and the Tenor B to C. The question asks for the resolution that *most* adheres to these principles. The correct resolution involves the leading tone (B) ascending to the tonic (C), the seventh (F) descending to the third (E), and the bass moving to the tonic root (C). The remaining voice (Alto) can then fill in the chord appropriately, often moving to the tonic root (C) or the fifth (G). The correct answer is the option that demonstrates this proper voice leading, specifically the resolution of the leading tone upwards and the seventh downwards, avoiding forbidden parallels.
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Question 2 of 30
2. Question
A student at Heisei College of Music is composing a chorale-style piece and has progressed through the following harmonic sequence: \( \text{Cmaj7} \rightarrow \text{Fmaj7} \rightarrow \text{Dm7} \rightarrow \text{G7} \). Considering the principles of smooth voice leading and functional harmony as emphasized in Heisei College of Music’s curriculum, which of the following resolutions from the \( \text{G7} \) chord to \( \text{Cmaj7} \) would best exemplify a stylistically appropriate and harmonically sound continuation?
Correct
The question probes the understanding of harmonic function and voice leading within a specific musical context, relevant to advanced music theory studies at Heisei College of Music. The scenario presents a progression that requires careful consideration of voice leading principles to resolve dissonances and establish tonal centers. The progression is given as: \( \text{Cmaj7} \rightarrow \text{Fmaj7} \rightarrow \text{Dm7} \rightarrow \text{G7} \rightarrow \text{Cmaj7} \). We are asked to identify the most harmonically sound and stylistically appropriate continuation from \( \text{G7} \) to \( \text{Cmaj7} \) in a chorale-style setting, emphasizing smooth voice leading. Let’s analyze the \( \text{G7} \) chord and its resolution to \( \text{Cmaj7} \). The \( \text{G7} \) chord consists of the notes G, B, D, and F. The \( \text{Cmaj7} \) chord consists of the notes C, E, G, and B. The leading tone in the key of C major is B, which is present in the \( \text{G7} \) chord. The leading tone has a strong tendency to resolve upwards by a half step to the tonic, C. The seventh of the dominant chord, F, has a tendency to resolve downwards by step to the third of the tonic chord, E. Consider the typical voice leading for a \( \text{V7} \rightarrow \text{I} \) progression: – The leading tone (B in \( \text{G7} \)) resolves up to the tonic (C in \( \text{Cmaj7} \)). – The seventh of the dominant (F in \( \text{G7} \)) resolves down to the third of the tonic (E in \( \text{Cmaj7} \)). – The root of the dominant (G in \( \text{G7} \)) typically moves to the root of the tonic (C in \( \text{Cmaj7} \)) or the fifth of the tonic (G in \( \text{Cmaj7} \)). – The fifth of the dominant (D in \( \text{G7} \)) typically moves to the root of the tonic (C in \( \text{Cmaj7} \)) or the fifth of the tonic (G in \( \text{Cmaj7} \)). Option a) presents a continuation where the B in the \( \text{G7} \) resolves to C, and the F resolves to E. This adheres to the fundamental principles of dominant-seventh resolution. The other notes of the \( \text{G7} \) chord (G and D) can then be voiced to complete the \( \text{Cmaj7} \) chord (C, E, G, B), ensuring smooth melodic lines and avoiding parallel octaves or fifths. For instance, if the \( \text{G7} \) is voiced G-B-D-F, a smooth resolution to C-E-G-C (with the leading tone resolving up and the seventh resolving down) is achieved. This demonstrates a strong understanding of functional harmony and voice leading, crucial for composition and arrangement at Heisei College of Music.
Incorrect
The question probes the understanding of harmonic function and voice leading within a specific musical context, relevant to advanced music theory studies at Heisei College of Music. The scenario presents a progression that requires careful consideration of voice leading principles to resolve dissonances and establish tonal centers. The progression is given as: \( \text{Cmaj7} \rightarrow \text{Fmaj7} \rightarrow \text{Dm7} \rightarrow \text{G7} \rightarrow \text{Cmaj7} \). We are asked to identify the most harmonically sound and stylistically appropriate continuation from \( \text{G7} \) to \( \text{Cmaj7} \) in a chorale-style setting, emphasizing smooth voice leading. Let’s analyze the \( \text{G7} \) chord and its resolution to \( \text{Cmaj7} \). The \( \text{G7} \) chord consists of the notes G, B, D, and F. The \( \text{Cmaj7} \) chord consists of the notes C, E, G, and B. The leading tone in the key of C major is B, which is present in the \( \text{G7} \) chord. The leading tone has a strong tendency to resolve upwards by a half step to the tonic, C. The seventh of the dominant chord, F, has a tendency to resolve downwards by step to the third of the tonic chord, E. Consider the typical voice leading for a \( \text{V7} \rightarrow \text{I} \) progression: – The leading tone (B in \( \text{G7} \)) resolves up to the tonic (C in \( \text{Cmaj7} \)). – The seventh of the dominant (F in \( \text{G7} \)) resolves down to the third of the tonic (E in \( \text{Cmaj7} \)). – The root of the dominant (G in \( \text{G7} \)) typically moves to the root of the tonic (C in \( \text{Cmaj7} \)) or the fifth of the tonic (G in \( \text{Cmaj7} \)). – The fifth of the dominant (D in \( \text{G7} \)) typically moves to the root of the tonic (C in \( \text{Cmaj7} \)) or the fifth of the tonic (G in \( \text{Cmaj7} \)). Option a) presents a continuation where the B in the \( \text{G7} \) resolves to C, and the F resolves to E. This adheres to the fundamental principles of dominant-seventh resolution. The other notes of the \( \text{G7} \) chord (G and D) can then be voiced to complete the \( \text{Cmaj7} \) chord (C, E, G, B), ensuring smooth melodic lines and avoiding parallel octaves or fifths. For instance, if the \( \text{G7} \) is voiced G-B-D-F, a smooth resolution to C-E-G-C (with the leading tone resolving up and the seventh resolving down) is achieved. This demonstrates a strong understanding of functional harmony and voice leading, crucial for composition and arrangement at Heisei College of Music.
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Question 3 of 30
3. Question
When composing a bass line to accompany a given soprano melody in the style of early Baroque counterpoint, a student at Heisei College of Music must meticulously adhere to established voice-leading principles. Consider the soprano line: C4, E4, G4, F4, D4, C4. Which of the following bass lines, when played simultaneously with the soprano, would be considered the most stylistically appropriate and contrapuntally sound according to the rigorous standards of Heisei College of Music’s music theory curriculum?
Correct
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of counterpoint and harmonic progression as taught at institutions like Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it tests the ability to identify a melodic line that adheres to strict two-part counterpoint rules, focusing on forbidden intervals and voice leading. Let’s analyze the scenario: A composer is writing a second melodic line to accompany a given soprano line in a style reminiscent of early Baroque or Renaissance practice, as often studied in Heisei College of Music’s historical performance and theory courses. The soprano line is presented as a series of pitches. We need to find a bass line that creates a harmonically sound and contrapuntally correct accompaniment. Consider the soprano line: C4, E4, G4, F4, D4, C4. A correct bass line must avoid: 1. Parallel perfect fifths and octaves between the soprano and bass. 2. Direct (hidden) fifths and octaves where both voices move in the same direction to a perfect interval. 3. Leaps of augmented intervals. 4. Excessive or awkward leaps. 5. Creating dissonant intervals on strong beats without proper resolution. Let’s evaluate potential bass lines: * **Option 1 (Hypothetical Correct):** C3, G3, C4, Bb3, G3, C3 * C4-C3 (Octave) – OK * E4-G3 (Sixth) – OK * G4-C4 (Fourth) – OK * F4-Bb3 (Fifth) – OK * D4-G3 (Sixth) – OK * C4-C3 (Octave) – OK * No parallel fifths/octaves. Voice leading is smooth. Harmonic implications are standard (I-V-I-IV-V-I in C major, with a Bb implying a secondary dominant or modal flavor). * **Option 2 (Hypothetical Incorrect – Parallel Fifths):** C3, G3, D4, C4, G3, C3 * C4-C3 (Octave) – OK * E4-G3 (Sixth) – OK * G4-D4 (Fifth) – OK * F4-C4 (Fourth) – OK * D4-G3 (Sixth) – OK * C4-C3 (Octave) – OK * However, if we consider the progression from E4-G3 to G4-D4, the interval between soprano and bass moves from a sixth (E4-G3) to a fifth (G4-D4). If the soprano moves E4 to G4 (up a third) and the bass moves G3 to D4 (up a fifth), this creates parallel fifths. This is a fundamental error in strict counterpoint. * **Option 3 (Hypothetical Incorrect – Direct Octave):** C3, G3, C4, F4, G3, C3 * C4-C3 (Octave) – OK * E4-G3 (Sixth) – OK * G4-C4 (Fourth) – OK * F4-F3 (Octave) – OK * D4-G3 (Sixth) – OK * C4-C3 (Octave) – OK * Consider the progression from F4-F3 to D4-G3. Soprano moves F4 to D4 (down a third). Bass moves F3 to G3 (up a step). This creates a direct octave from F4-F3 to D4-G3 if the soprano and bass both move downwards or upwards to the octave. In this specific case, the soprano moves down and the bass moves up, but the *resulting* interval is a sixth, not an octave. The issue arises if the soprano moves F4 to D4 and the bass moves F3 to D3 (creating a direct octave). Let’s re-evaluate the direct octave scenario. If the soprano is F4 and the bass is F3, and the next notes are D4 and G3, the soprano moves down a third, the bass moves up a step. This is not a direct octave. A direct octave would occur if, for example, the soprano moved from G4 to F4 and the bass moved from C4 to F3, both moving towards the F interval. * **Option 4 (Hypothetical Incorrect – Dissonance):** C3, G3, A3, Bb3, E3, C3 * C4-C3 (Octave) – OK * E4-G3 (Sixth) – OK * G4-A3 (Second) – Dissonant, requires resolution. * F4-Bb3 (Fifth) – OK * D4-E3 (Seventh) – Dissonant, requires resolution. * C4-C3 (Octave) – OK * The presence of a dissonant interval like a second (G4-A3) on a strong beat without immediate resolution, or a seventh (D4-E3) that is not properly handled, would violate strict contrapuntal rules. The bass line C3, G3, A3, Bb3, E3, C3 creates a second between G4 and A3 on the third beat of the G4 measure, and a seventh between D4 and E3 on the fifth beat of the D4 measure. These dissonances are not prepared or resolved according to strict rules. Therefore, the bass line that most closely adheres to the principles of two-part counterpoint, avoiding parallel motion, direct octaves/fifths, and improperly handled dissonances, is the one that maintains smooth voice leading and consonant intervals on strong beats. The correct answer is the one that avoids these specific contrapuntal errors. The calculation is not numerical but analytical, involving the identification of forbidden contrapuntal intervals and motion. The process involves comparing the intervals formed between the given soprano line and each proposed bass line against the rules of strict two-part counterpoint. The correct option is the one that successfully navigates these rules, ensuring consonant intervals on strong beats, smooth voice leading, and avoidance of parallel perfect intervals and direct octaves/fifths. This analytical process is fundamental to the theoretical training at Heisei College of Music, emphasizing historical stylistic accuracy and a deep understanding of harmonic and melodic relationships.
Incorrect
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of counterpoint and harmonic progression as taught at institutions like Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it tests the ability to identify a melodic line that adheres to strict two-part counterpoint rules, focusing on forbidden intervals and voice leading. Let’s analyze the scenario: A composer is writing a second melodic line to accompany a given soprano line in a style reminiscent of early Baroque or Renaissance practice, as often studied in Heisei College of Music’s historical performance and theory courses. The soprano line is presented as a series of pitches. We need to find a bass line that creates a harmonically sound and contrapuntally correct accompaniment. Consider the soprano line: C4, E4, G4, F4, D4, C4. A correct bass line must avoid: 1. Parallel perfect fifths and octaves between the soprano and bass. 2. Direct (hidden) fifths and octaves where both voices move in the same direction to a perfect interval. 3. Leaps of augmented intervals. 4. Excessive or awkward leaps. 5. Creating dissonant intervals on strong beats without proper resolution. Let’s evaluate potential bass lines: * **Option 1 (Hypothetical Correct):** C3, G3, C4, Bb3, G3, C3 * C4-C3 (Octave) – OK * E4-G3 (Sixth) – OK * G4-C4 (Fourth) – OK * F4-Bb3 (Fifth) – OK * D4-G3 (Sixth) – OK * C4-C3 (Octave) – OK * No parallel fifths/octaves. Voice leading is smooth. Harmonic implications are standard (I-V-I-IV-V-I in C major, with a Bb implying a secondary dominant or modal flavor). * **Option 2 (Hypothetical Incorrect – Parallel Fifths):** C3, G3, D4, C4, G3, C3 * C4-C3 (Octave) – OK * E4-G3 (Sixth) – OK * G4-D4 (Fifth) – OK * F4-C4 (Fourth) – OK * D4-G3 (Sixth) – OK * C4-C3 (Octave) – OK * However, if we consider the progression from E4-G3 to G4-D4, the interval between soprano and bass moves from a sixth (E4-G3) to a fifth (G4-D4). If the soprano moves E4 to G4 (up a third) and the bass moves G3 to D4 (up a fifth), this creates parallel fifths. This is a fundamental error in strict counterpoint. * **Option 3 (Hypothetical Incorrect – Direct Octave):** C3, G3, C4, F4, G3, C3 * C4-C3 (Octave) – OK * E4-G3 (Sixth) – OK * G4-C4 (Fourth) – OK * F4-F3 (Octave) – OK * D4-G3 (Sixth) – OK * C4-C3 (Octave) – OK * Consider the progression from F4-F3 to D4-G3. Soprano moves F4 to D4 (down a third). Bass moves F3 to G3 (up a step). This creates a direct octave from F4-F3 to D4-G3 if the soprano and bass both move downwards or upwards to the octave. In this specific case, the soprano moves down and the bass moves up, but the *resulting* interval is a sixth, not an octave. The issue arises if the soprano moves F4 to D4 and the bass moves F3 to D3 (creating a direct octave). Let’s re-evaluate the direct octave scenario. If the soprano is F4 and the bass is F3, and the next notes are D4 and G3, the soprano moves down a third, the bass moves up a step. This is not a direct octave. A direct octave would occur if, for example, the soprano moved from G4 to F4 and the bass moved from C4 to F3, both moving towards the F interval. * **Option 4 (Hypothetical Incorrect – Dissonance):** C3, G3, A3, Bb3, E3, C3 * C4-C3 (Octave) – OK * E4-G3 (Sixth) – OK * G4-A3 (Second) – Dissonant, requires resolution. * F4-Bb3 (Fifth) – OK * D4-E3 (Seventh) – Dissonant, requires resolution. * C4-C3 (Octave) – OK * The presence of a dissonant interval like a second (G4-A3) on a strong beat without immediate resolution, or a seventh (D4-E3) that is not properly handled, would violate strict contrapuntal rules. The bass line C3, G3, A3, Bb3, E3, C3 creates a second between G4 and A3 on the third beat of the G4 measure, and a seventh between D4 and E3 on the fifth beat of the D4 measure. These dissonances are not prepared or resolved according to strict rules. Therefore, the bass line that most closely adheres to the principles of two-part counterpoint, avoiding parallel motion, direct octaves/fifths, and improperly handled dissonances, is the one that maintains smooth voice leading and consonant intervals on strong beats. The correct answer is the one that avoids these specific contrapuntal errors. The calculation is not numerical but analytical, involving the identification of forbidden contrapuntal intervals and motion. The process involves comparing the intervals formed between the given soprano line and each proposed bass line against the rules of strict two-part counterpoint. The correct option is the one that successfully navigates these rules, ensuring consonant intervals on strong beats, smooth voice leading, and avoidance of parallel perfect intervals and direct octaves/fifths. This analytical process is fundamental to the theoretical training at Heisei College of Music, emphasizing historical stylistic accuracy and a deep understanding of harmonic and melodic relationships.
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Question 4 of 30
4. Question
In a four-part chorale composition exercise at Heisei College of Music, a student is tasked with resolving a dominant seventh chord in first inversion to a tonic triad. Considering the stylistic conventions and voice-leading principles emphasized in the college’s curriculum, which of the following resolutions of a G7 (first inversion) chord to a C major triad would be deemed the most harmonically complete and melodically fluid for the inner voices?
Correct
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of harmonic progression and voice leading within a contrapuntal context, specifically as applied to the stylistic conventions often explored at Heisei College of Music. A dominant seventh chord in first inversion, when resolving to a tonic chord, typically involves specific voice leading rules to maintain smoothness and avoid parallel fifths or octaves. Consider a G7 chord in first inversion (B-D-F-A) resolving to a C major chord (C-E-G). In the first inversion G7 chord, the notes are: Bass: B Tenor: D Alto: F Soprano: A A standard resolution to C major would involve: Bass (B) moving to C (root of tonic). Tenor (D) moving to E (third of tonic). Alto (F) moving down to E (third of tonic). Soprano (A) moving down to G (fifth of tonic). This results in the C major chord: C (bass), E (tenor), E (alto), G (soprano). However, this arrangement has two Es in the upper voices, which is acceptable but not always the most idiomatic or sonically rich. A more common and preferred resolution, especially in a four-part texture aiming for distinct melodic lines, would involve a different distribution of the tonic chord’s notes. Let’s re-evaluate the resolution of the G7 (first inversion) to C major, aiming for a complete tonic chord with no doubled leading tones and avoiding parallel motion. G7 (first inversion): B (bass), D (tenor), F (alto), A (soprano). Resolution to C major (C, E, G). Option 1 (as above): B->C, D->E, F->E, A->G. Result: C, E, E, G. (Acceptable, but potentially less ideal for distinct voicing). Option 2 (more nuanced voice leading): Bass (B) moves to C. Tenor (D) moves to G (fifth of tonic). Alto (F) moves down to E (third of tonic). Soprano (A) moves down to G (fifth of tonic). This leads to a C major chord with C in the bass, G in the tenor, E in the alto, and G in the soprano. This results in a doubled fifth (G) and the third (E). This is a valid and often preferred resolution in classical harmony. Let’s consider the specific constraint of avoiding parallel fifths and octaves and ensuring smooth melodic contours, which are paramount in the pedagogical approach at Heisei College of Music. The question asks about the *most appropriate* resolution in a typical four-part chorale setting, emphasizing stylistic correctness. If the G7 in first inversion is B-D-F-A, and we resolve to C major (C-E-G), let’s examine the options: Scenario 1: B (bass) to C, D (tenor) to E, F (alto) to E, A (soprano) to G. This gives C-E-E-G. No parallel fifths or octaves. Smooth voice leading. Scenario 2: B (bass) to C, D (tenor) to G, F (alto) to E, A (soprano) to G. This gives C-G-E-G. No parallel fifths or octaves. Smooth voice leading. The doubling of the fifth (G) is acceptable. The question asks for the *most appropriate* resolution in a four-part chorale setting, implying a consideration for the completeness of the chord and the melodic independence of each voice. While Scenario 1 is harmonically correct, Scenario 2, where the tenor moves from D to G, creates a more distinct melodic line for the tenor and results in a complete tonic chord with the root, third, and fifth present, albeit with a doubled fifth. This often aligns better with the emphasis on melodic integrity and harmonic richness taught at institutions like Heisei College of Music. The resolution of the leading tone (B) to the tonic (C) is crucial, as is the resolution of the seventh (F) to the third of the tonic chord (E). The movement of the remaining voices (D and A) is where stylistic choices become more apparent. Moving D to G and A to G provides a more robust harmonic texture and better melodic contour for the tenor than D to E. Therefore, the resolution where the leading tone (B) moves to the tonic (C), the seventh (F) moves to the third (E), the tenor (D) moves to the fifth (G), and the soprano (A) moves to the fifth (G) is considered the most appropriate for achieving a complete tonic chord with good voice leading. Final Answer Derivation: The G7 (first inversion) chord consists of the notes B, D, F, A. The tonic chord C major consists of the notes C, E, G. The leading tone B must resolve to C. The seventh F must resolve down by step to E. The remaining notes are D and A. To form a complete C major chord (C, E, G), we need to distribute these notes. If D goes to E and A goes to G, we get C, E, E, G. This is a valid resolution. If D goes to G and A goes to G, we get C, G, E, G. This is also a valid resolution, and often preferred for its complete harmonic structure and melodic independence. The question asks for the *most appropriate* resolution in a four-part chorale setting, which implies a preference for a complete tonic chord and smooth voice leading. The resolution of D to G and A to G (resulting in C-G-E-G) achieves this. The correct answer is the resolution where the leading tone B moves to C, the seventh F moves to E, the tenor D moves to G, and the soprano A moves to G.
Incorrect
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of harmonic progression and voice leading within a contrapuntal context, specifically as applied to the stylistic conventions often explored at Heisei College of Music. A dominant seventh chord in first inversion, when resolving to a tonic chord, typically involves specific voice leading rules to maintain smoothness and avoid parallel fifths or octaves. Consider a G7 chord in first inversion (B-D-F-A) resolving to a C major chord (C-E-G). In the first inversion G7 chord, the notes are: Bass: B Tenor: D Alto: F Soprano: A A standard resolution to C major would involve: Bass (B) moving to C (root of tonic). Tenor (D) moving to E (third of tonic). Alto (F) moving down to E (third of tonic). Soprano (A) moving down to G (fifth of tonic). This results in the C major chord: C (bass), E (tenor), E (alto), G (soprano). However, this arrangement has two Es in the upper voices, which is acceptable but not always the most idiomatic or sonically rich. A more common and preferred resolution, especially in a four-part texture aiming for distinct melodic lines, would involve a different distribution of the tonic chord’s notes. Let’s re-evaluate the resolution of the G7 (first inversion) to C major, aiming for a complete tonic chord with no doubled leading tones and avoiding parallel motion. G7 (first inversion): B (bass), D (tenor), F (alto), A (soprano). Resolution to C major (C, E, G). Option 1 (as above): B->C, D->E, F->E, A->G. Result: C, E, E, G. (Acceptable, but potentially less ideal for distinct voicing). Option 2 (more nuanced voice leading): Bass (B) moves to C. Tenor (D) moves to G (fifth of tonic). Alto (F) moves down to E (third of tonic). Soprano (A) moves down to G (fifth of tonic). This leads to a C major chord with C in the bass, G in the tenor, E in the alto, and G in the soprano. This results in a doubled fifth (G) and the third (E). This is a valid and often preferred resolution in classical harmony. Let’s consider the specific constraint of avoiding parallel fifths and octaves and ensuring smooth melodic contours, which are paramount in the pedagogical approach at Heisei College of Music. The question asks about the *most appropriate* resolution in a typical four-part chorale setting, emphasizing stylistic correctness. If the G7 in first inversion is B-D-F-A, and we resolve to C major (C-E-G), let’s examine the options: Scenario 1: B (bass) to C, D (tenor) to E, F (alto) to E, A (soprano) to G. This gives C-E-E-G. No parallel fifths or octaves. Smooth voice leading. Scenario 2: B (bass) to C, D (tenor) to G, F (alto) to E, A (soprano) to G. This gives C-G-E-G. No parallel fifths or octaves. Smooth voice leading. The doubling of the fifth (G) is acceptable. The question asks for the *most appropriate* resolution in a four-part chorale setting, implying a consideration for the completeness of the chord and the melodic independence of each voice. While Scenario 1 is harmonically correct, Scenario 2, where the tenor moves from D to G, creates a more distinct melodic line for the tenor and results in a complete tonic chord with the root, third, and fifth present, albeit with a doubled fifth. This often aligns better with the emphasis on melodic integrity and harmonic richness taught at institutions like Heisei College of Music. The resolution of the leading tone (B) to the tonic (C) is crucial, as is the resolution of the seventh (F) to the third of the tonic chord (E). The movement of the remaining voices (D and A) is where stylistic choices become more apparent. Moving D to G and A to G provides a more robust harmonic texture and better melodic contour for the tenor than D to E. Therefore, the resolution where the leading tone (B) moves to the tonic (C), the seventh (F) moves to the third (E), the tenor (D) moves to the fifth (G), and the soprano (A) moves to the fifth (G) is considered the most appropriate for achieving a complete tonic chord with good voice leading. Final Answer Derivation: The G7 (first inversion) chord consists of the notes B, D, F, A. The tonic chord C major consists of the notes C, E, G. The leading tone B must resolve to C. The seventh F must resolve down by step to E. The remaining notes are D and A. To form a complete C major chord (C, E, G), we need to distribute these notes. If D goes to E and A goes to G, we get C, E, E, G. This is a valid resolution. If D goes to G and A goes to G, we get C, G, E, G. This is also a valid resolution, and often preferred for its complete harmonic structure and melodic independence. The question asks for the *most appropriate* resolution in a four-part chorale setting, which implies a preference for a complete tonic chord and smooth voice leading. The resolution of D to G and A to G (resulting in C-G-E-G) achieves this. The correct answer is the resolution where the leading tone B moves to C, the seventh F moves to E, the tenor D moves to G, and the soprano A moves to G.
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Question 5 of 30
5. Question
During a compositional analysis exercise for an advanced harmony course at Heisei College of Music, a student encounters a passage in C major that features a chord containing the pitch F# immediately preceding a Cmaj7 chord. Considering the principles of voice leading and harmonic function typically emphasized in the curriculum, what is the most stylistically appropriate resolution for the F# in this context?
Correct
The question assesses understanding of harmonic progression and voice leading principles within a specific stylistic context, relevant to advanced music theory studies at Heisei College of Music. The scenario involves a progression that deviates from strict diatonicism, requiring analysis of chromatic alterations and their functional implications. Consider a standard V-I progression in C major: G7 to Cmaj7. The V chord (G7) typically contains the notes G, B, D, F. The I chord (Cmaj7) contains C, E, G, B. The dominant seventh (F) resolves down by a half step to the tonic (E), and the leading tone (B) resolves up by a half step to the tonic (C). In the given scenario, the progression moves from a chord with a raised fourth scale degree (F# in the context of C major, implying a secondary dominant or altered chord) to a tonic chord. If we assume the progression is in C major and the initial chord is a secondary dominant to the dominant (e.g., D7/G, which is D-F#-A-C), leading to G7 (G-B-D-F), and then to Cmaj7 (C-E-G-B). The F# in the D7 chord would typically resolve upwards to G in the G7 chord. However, the question presents a scenario where a chord containing F# directly precedes a Cmaj7 chord. Let’s analyze a common chromatic alteration that would lead to a Cmaj7 chord. A Neapolitan chord (bII) in C major would be Db major (Db-F-Ab). An augmented sixth chord, such as an Italian augmented sixth (Ab-C-F#), resolves to a dominant chord. A German augmented sixth (Ab-C-Eb-F#) also resolves to a dominant chord. However, the question implies a direct progression from a chord with F# to Cmaj7. A plausible chord containing F# that leads to Cmaj7 is a secondary dominant of the dominant, specifically a D7 chord (D-F#-A-C) or a D7b9 chord (D-F#-A-C-Eb). In this case, the F# would be the leading tone to G, the root of the dominant chord. If the progression bypasses the dominant and moves directly to the tonic, the F# might be functioning as part of an altered dominant chord or a chord with a borrowed tone. A more direct chromatic approach to Cmaj7 from a chord containing F# would involve the F# resolving to G, and the other voices of the preceding chord resolving appropriately. For instance, a C# diminished seventh chord (C#-E-G-Bb) could resolve to D7, which then resolves to Cmaj7. However, the question implies a chord *containing* F# directly preceding Cmaj7. Consider the function of F# in relation to C major. F# is the leading tone to G (the dominant). A chord built on F# could be F# diminished (F#-A-C) or F# half-diminished (F#-A-C-E). Neither of these directly leads to Cmaj7 in a standard functional way without an intervening chord. Let’s re-evaluate the scenario. If the preceding chord is a secondary dominant to the dominant, such as D7 (D-F#-A-C), the F# is the leading tone to G. If this D7 chord were to resolve directly to Cmaj7, the F# would ideally move to G. However, if the F# is part of a chord that *approaches* Cmaj7, and we are looking for the most common or stylistically appropriate voice leading, we must consider how F# can resolve. A common chromatic approach to the tonic Cmaj7 involves the tritone resolution. The interval of a tritone exists between F and B in a G7 chord. In C major, the F is the 4th scale degree and B is the leading tone. Let’s consider a chord that contains F# and leads to Cmaj7. A D7 chord (D-F#-A-C) leads to G7 (G-B-D-F), which then leads to Cmaj7. If the D7 chord were to resolve directly to Cmaj7, the F# would typically move to G. However, the question asks about the *most likely* resolution of the F# in the context of a Heisei College of Music entrance exam, which often emphasizes classical and romantic period voice leading. In such contexts, chromaticism is often employed for expressive purposes and to create smoother voice leading. Consider the progression from a chord containing F# to Cmaj7. A common chromatic approach to the tonic involves the leading tone of the tonic (B) resolving to C, and the dominant note (G) remaining or moving to E. The F# is the leading tone to G. If the F# is part of a chord that directly precedes Cmaj7, and we want smooth voice leading, the F# would most naturally resolve upwards to G. This G would then be part of the Cmaj7 chord. Let’s consider a specific example. If the preceding chord is a D major chord (D-F#-A), and it moves to Cmaj7 (C-E-G-B). The F# would move to G. This is a plausible, though not strictly functional, progression. However, a more common and stylistically appropriate chromatic approach to Cmaj7 involving F# would be through a secondary dominant to the dominant, or an altered dominant. For instance, a D7 chord (D-F#-A-C) resolves to G7 (G-B-D-F), which resolves to Cmaj7. In this chain, the F# in the D7 resolves to G in the G7. If we consider a direct chromatic approach to Cmaj7, the F# could be part of a chord that creates a strong pull to the tonic. A chord like C# diminished (C#-E-G-Bb) could resolve to D7, and then to Cmaj7. Let’s consider the possibility of an augmented sixth chord. An Italian augmented sixth chord built on Ab would be Ab-C-F#. This chord typically resolves to a dominant chord. For example, Ab-C-F# resolving to G7. The question is designed to test the understanding of how chromatic tones function and resolve within a tonal framework, particularly in the context of preparing for advanced studies at Heisei College of Music. The F# is a chromatic alteration in C major. Its most common and stylistically appropriate resolution, when approaching the tonic Cmaj7, is to ascend by a half step to G, the dominant note of the C major scale, which is also a member of the Cmaj7 chord. This upward resolution of the leading tone to the dominant creates a smooth and expected melodic line. While other resolutions might be theoretically possible in highly experimental contexts, the question implies a standard tonal or neo-tonal approach expected in classical and romantic music, which is a cornerstone of music education at Heisei College of Music. Therefore, the F# resolving to G is the most harmonically and melodically sound resolution in this context. The calculation is conceptual, not numerical. The F# is the leading tone to G. In C major, G is the dominant. The tonic chord is Cmaj7 (C-E-G-B). The most direct and smooth resolution for F# when approaching Cmaj7 is to ascend to G. Final Answer: F# resolves to G.
Incorrect
The question assesses understanding of harmonic progression and voice leading principles within a specific stylistic context, relevant to advanced music theory studies at Heisei College of Music. The scenario involves a progression that deviates from strict diatonicism, requiring analysis of chromatic alterations and their functional implications. Consider a standard V-I progression in C major: G7 to Cmaj7. The V chord (G7) typically contains the notes G, B, D, F. The I chord (Cmaj7) contains C, E, G, B. The dominant seventh (F) resolves down by a half step to the tonic (E), and the leading tone (B) resolves up by a half step to the tonic (C). In the given scenario, the progression moves from a chord with a raised fourth scale degree (F# in the context of C major, implying a secondary dominant or altered chord) to a tonic chord. If we assume the progression is in C major and the initial chord is a secondary dominant to the dominant (e.g., D7/G, which is D-F#-A-C), leading to G7 (G-B-D-F), and then to Cmaj7 (C-E-G-B). The F# in the D7 chord would typically resolve upwards to G in the G7 chord. However, the question presents a scenario where a chord containing F# directly precedes a Cmaj7 chord. Let’s analyze a common chromatic alteration that would lead to a Cmaj7 chord. A Neapolitan chord (bII) in C major would be Db major (Db-F-Ab). An augmented sixth chord, such as an Italian augmented sixth (Ab-C-F#), resolves to a dominant chord. A German augmented sixth (Ab-C-Eb-F#) also resolves to a dominant chord. However, the question implies a direct progression from a chord with F# to Cmaj7. A plausible chord containing F# that leads to Cmaj7 is a secondary dominant of the dominant, specifically a D7 chord (D-F#-A-C) or a D7b9 chord (D-F#-A-C-Eb). In this case, the F# would be the leading tone to G, the root of the dominant chord. If the progression bypasses the dominant and moves directly to the tonic, the F# might be functioning as part of an altered dominant chord or a chord with a borrowed tone. A more direct chromatic approach to Cmaj7 from a chord containing F# would involve the F# resolving to G, and the other voices of the preceding chord resolving appropriately. For instance, a C# diminished seventh chord (C#-E-G-Bb) could resolve to D7, which then resolves to Cmaj7. However, the question implies a chord *containing* F# directly preceding Cmaj7. Consider the function of F# in relation to C major. F# is the leading tone to G (the dominant). A chord built on F# could be F# diminished (F#-A-C) or F# half-diminished (F#-A-C-E). Neither of these directly leads to Cmaj7 in a standard functional way without an intervening chord. Let’s re-evaluate the scenario. If the preceding chord is a secondary dominant to the dominant, such as D7 (D-F#-A-C), the F# is the leading tone to G. If this D7 chord were to resolve directly to Cmaj7, the F# would ideally move to G. However, if the F# is part of a chord that *approaches* Cmaj7, and we are looking for the most common or stylistically appropriate voice leading, we must consider how F# can resolve. A common chromatic approach to the tonic Cmaj7 involves the tritone resolution. The interval of a tritone exists between F and B in a G7 chord. In C major, the F is the 4th scale degree and B is the leading tone. Let’s consider a chord that contains F# and leads to Cmaj7. A D7 chord (D-F#-A-C) leads to G7 (G-B-D-F), which then leads to Cmaj7. If the D7 chord were to resolve directly to Cmaj7, the F# would typically move to G. However, the question asks about the *most likely* resolution of the F# in the context of a Heisei College of Music entrance exam, which often emphasizes classical and romantic period voice leading. In such contexts, chromaticism is often employed for expressive purposes and to create smoother voice leading. Consider the progression from a chord containing F# to Cmaj7. A common chromatic approach to the tonic involves the leading tone of the tonic (B) resolving to C, and the dominant note (G) remaining or moving to E. The F# is the leading tone to G. If the F# is part of a chord that directly precedes Cmaj7, and we want smooth voice leading, the F# would most naturally resolve upwards to G. This G would then be part of the Cmaj7 chord. Let’s consider a specific example. If the preceding chord is a D major chord (D-F#-A), and it moves to Cmaj7 (C-E-G-B). The F# would move to G. This is a plausible, though not strictly functional, progression. However, a more common and stylistically appropriate chromatic approach to Cmaj7 involving F# would be through a secondary dominant to the dominant, or an altered dominant. For instance, a D7 chord (D-F#-A-C) resolves to G7 (G-B-D-F), which resolves to Cmaj7. In this chain, the F# in the D7 resolves to G in the G7. If we consider a direct chromatic approach to Cmaj7, the F# could be part of a chord that creates a strong pull to the tonic. A chord like C# diminished (C#-E-G-Bb) could resolve to D7, and then to Cmaj7. Let’s consider the possibility of an augmented sixth chord. An Italian augmented sixth chord built on Ab would be Ab-C-F#. This chord typically resolves to a dominant chord. For example, Ab-C-F# resolving to G7. The question is designed to test the understanding of how chromatic tones function and resolve within a tonal framework, particularly in the context of preparing for advanced studies at Heisei College of Music. The F# is a chromatic alteration in C major. Its most common and stylistically appropriate resolution, when approaching the tonic Cmaj7, is to ascend by a half step to G, the dominant note of the C major scale, which is also a member of the Cmaj7 chord. This upward resolution of the leading tone to the dominant creates a smooth and expected melodic line. While other resolutions might be theoretically possible in highly experimental contexts, the question implies a standard tonal or neo-tonal approach expected in classical and romantic music, which is a cornerstone of music education at Heisei College of Music. Therefore, the F# resolving to G is the most harmonically and melodically sound resolution in this context. The calculation is conceptual, not numerical. The F# is the leading tone to G. In C major, G is the dominant. The tonic chord is Cmaj7 (C-E-G-B). The most direct and smooth resolution for F# when approaching Cmaj7 is to ascend to G. Final Answer: F# resolves to G.
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Question 6 of 30
6. Question
In the context of a two-part fugal exposition at Heisei College of Music’s advanced composition seminar, consider a subject presented in the tonic key of A minor. The subsequent answer is to be a tonal answer in the relative major key of C major. Which of the following contrapuntal textures, as the first voice continues its melodic development while the second voice states the answer, would most effectively reinforce the harmonic integrity and clarity of the C major entry?
Correct
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of counterpoint and harmonic progression as applied in early Baroque music, a period heavily studied at Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it tests the ability to identify a melodic line that adheres to the strict voice-leading rules of species counterpoint while simultaneously creating a plausible harmonic progression within the context of a fugue exposition. Consider a two-part invention in C major. The subject is presented in the tonic. The answer, in the dominant (G major), must be a tonal answer, meaning it’s transposed precisely to the dominant key. However, if the subject contains a prominent leading tone to the tonic (e.g., a B in C major) that is crucial for establishing the tonic’s identity, a tonal answer might alter that interval to maintain the modal character of the new key. In this case, the subject might start with C-D-E-F-G. A real answer would transpose this to G-A-B-C-D. If the original subject had a B that strongly implied C major, a tonal answer might change that B to a B-flat to better fit the G major tonality, resulting in G-A-B♭-C-D. However, the question asks about a *contrapuntal texture* that *enhances* the harmonic clarity of the dominant entry, not just a simple transposition. This implies considering how the accompanying voice (the subject in the tonic, while the answer is in the dominant) interacts harmonically. The goal is to establish the new key of G major unequivocally. Let’s analyze the options based on this: A tonal answer that uses a B-natural in the second voice (which would be the subject in the tonic) when the answer is in the dominant (G major) would create a dissonant interval with the leading tone of G major (F#). For instance, if the answer in G major starts G-A-B-C-D, and the subject in C major starts C-D-E-F-G, and the subject has a B-natural, the interaction between the B in the answer and the F in the subject would be a diminished fifth, which is permissible but not ideal for establishing the dominant’s strength. A more effective contrapuntal approach would be for the subject in the tonic to use a melodic contour that supports the dominant key’s establishment. If the subject in C major is C-D-E-F-G-A-B-C, and the answer is a tonal answer in G major, it would be G-A-B-C-D-E-F-G. If the original subject contained a B-natural, the tonal answer would likely change it to a B-flat to avoid a tritone with the dominant’s leading tone (F#). However, the question is about the *interaction* of the voices. Consider a subject in C major: C-E-G-F-E-D-C. A real answer in G major would be G-B-D-C-B-A-G. A tonal answer might alter the B to B-flat if the B in the original subject was a leading tone to C. So, G-B♭-D-C-B♭-A-G. The question asks about the *contrapuntal texture* that *enhances harmonic clarity* of the dominant entry. This means the melodic movement in the *other* voice (the one that entered first) should complement the new key. If the first voice presented the subject in C major, and the second voice enters with the answer in G major, the first voice, while continuing its own melodic line (perhaps a countersubject or continuation of the subject), should not create harmonic ambiguity for G major. Let’s assume the subject in C major is C-D-E-F-G. A real answer in G major is G-A-B-C-D. If the original subject had a B-natural, a tonal answer would make it B-flat. So the answer is G-A-B♭-C-D. Now, what should the first voice (in C major) be doing? If it’s a simple continuation, it might be E-F-G-A-B. The interaction between the B♭ in the answer and the F in the first voice is a perfect fifth, which is consonant. The interaction between the C in the answer and the G in the first voice is a perfect fourth, also consonant. The key is to establish G major. A melodic line in the first voice that emphasizes the leading tone of G major (F#) would be counterproductive if the answer is in G major. Conversely, a melodic line that supports G major is beneficial. Let’s re-evaluate the core concept: establishing the dominant key. The answer itself is in the dominant. The accompanying voice (the subject in the tonic) must create a texture that reinforces the dominant. Consider the subject in C major: C-E-G-F-E-D-C. A real answer in G major: G-B-D-C-B-A-G. If the first voice continues with a melodic line that includes F#, this would strongly reinforce G major. For example, if the first voice, after presenting the subject, moves to F#-G-A-B-C. The interaction with the answer’s G-B-D-C-B-A-G would be: G (answer) with F# (first voice) = minor seventh (consonant) B (answer) with G (first voice) = major third (consonant) D (answer) with A (first voice) = perfect fifth (consonant) C (answer) with B (first voice) = major second (consonant) B (answer) with C (first voice) = major seventh (consonant) A (answer) with D (first voice) = perfect fourth (consonant) G (answer) with E (first voice) = major third (consonant) This creates a rich, consonant texture that supports the dominant key. The presence of F# in the first voice, while the answer is in G major, is crucial for establishing the leading tone of the dominant. Therefore, the contrapuntal texture that best enhances the harmonic clarity of the dominant entry is one where the first voice (in the tonic) includes melodic material that strongly implies the dominant key, specifically by featuring the dominant’s leading tone. The calculation is conceptual: identifying the harmonic function of melodic intervals within a contrapuntal framework to establish a new key. No numerical calculation is performed, but rather an analysis of intervallic relationships and their harmonic implications. The question probes the understanding of how melodic lines interact to create harmonic clarity, a fundamental concept in Baroque counterpoint and composition, which is a cornerstone of the curriculum at Heisei College of Music. The ability to analyze these interactions is vital for composers and performers alike, as it underpins the structural integrity and expressive power of music from this era. Understanding the role of the leading tone in establishing tonality, particularly in the context of fugal entries, is a sophisticated skill. This question requires students to think beyond simple transposition and consider the active role of each voice in defining the harmonic landscape. The specific mention of “harmonic clarity of the dominant entry” directs the focus to the crucial moment of modulation and the contrapuntal means used to solidify the new key. This aligns with Heisei College of Music’s emphasis on deep analytical skills and historical performance practice.
Incorrect
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of counterpoint and harmonic progression as applied in early Baroque music, a period heavily studied at Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it tests the ability to identify a melodic line that adheres to the strict voice-leading rules of species counterpoint while simultaneously creating a plausible harmonic progression within the context of a fugue exposition. Consider a two-part invention in C major. The subject is presented in the tonic. The answer, in the dominant (G major), must be a tonal answer, meaning it’s transposed precisely to the dominant key. However, if the subject contains a prominent leading tone to the tonic (e.g., a B in C major) that is crucial for establishing the tonic’s identity, a tonal answer might alter that interval to maintain the modal character of the new key. In this case, the subject might start with C-D-E-F-G. A real answer would transpose this to G-A-B-C-D. If the original subject had a B that strongly implied C major, a tonal answer might change that B to a B-flat to better fit the G major tonality, resulting in G-A-B♭-C-D. However, the question asks about a *contrapuntal texture* that *enhances* the harmonic clarity of the dominant entry, not just a simple transposition. This implies considering how the accompanying voice (the subject in the tonic, while the answer is in the dominant) interacts harmonically. The goal is to establish the new key of G major unequivocally. Let’s analyze the options based on this: A tonal answer that uses a B-natural in the second voice (which would be the subject in the tonic) when the answer is in the dominant (G major) would create a dissonant interval with the leading tone of G major (F#). For instance, if the answer in G major starts G-A-B-C-D, and the subject in C major starts C-D-E-F-G, and the subject has a B-natural, the interaction between the B in the answer and the F in the subject would be a diminished fifth, which is permissible but not ideal for establishing the dominant’s strength. A more effective contrapuntal approach would be for the subject in the tonic to use a melodic contour that supports the dominant key’s establishment. If the subject in C major is C-D-E-F-G-A-B-C, and the answer is a tonal answer in G major, it would be G-A-B-C-D-E-F-G. If the original subject contained a B-natural, the tonal answer would likely change it to a B-flat to avoid a tritone with the dominant’s leading tone (F#). However, the question is about the *interaction* of the voices. Consider a subject in C major: C-E-G-F-E-D-C. A real answer in G major would be G-B-D-C-B-A-G. A tonal answer might alter the B to B-flat if the B in the original subject was a leading tone to C. So, G-B♭-D-C-B♭-A-G. The question asks about the *contrapuntal texture* that *enhances harmonic clarity* of the dominant entry. This means the melodic movement in the *other* voice (the one that entered first) should complement the new key. If the first voice presented the subject in C major, and the second voice enters with the answer in G major, the first voice, while continuing its own melodic line (perhaps a countersubject or continuation of the subject), should not create harmonic ambiguity for G major. Let’s assume the subject in C major is C-D-E-F-G. A real answer in G major is G-A-B-C-D. If the original subject had a B-natural, a tonal answer would make it B-flat. So the answer is G-A-B♭-C-D. Now, what should the first voice (in C major) be doing? If it’s a simple continuation, it might be E-F-G-A-B. The interaction between the B♭ in the answer and the F in the first voice is a perfect fifth, which is consonant. The interaction between the C in the answer and the G in the first voice is a perfect fourth, also consonant. The key is to establish G major. A melodic line in the first voice that emphasizes the leading tone of G major (F#) would be counterproductive if the answer is in G major. Conversely, a melodic line that supports G major is beneficial. Let’s re-evaluate the core concept: establishing the dominant key. The answer itself is in the dominant. The accompanying voice (the subject in the tonic) must create a texture that reinforces the dominant. Consider the subject in C major: C-E-G-F-E-D-C. A real answer in G major: G-B-D-C-B-A-G. If the first voice continues with a melodic line that includes F#, this would strongly reinforce G major. For example, if the first voice, after presenting the subject, moves to F#-G-A-B-C. The interaction with the answer’s G-B-D-C-B-A-G would be: G (answer) with F# (first voice) = minor seventh (consonant) B (answer) with G (first voice) = major third (consonant) D (answer) with A (first voice) = perfect fifth (consonant) C (answer) with B (first voice) = major second (consonant) B (answer) with C (first voice) = major seventh (consonant) A (answer) with D (first voice) = perfect fourth (consonant) G (answer) with E (first voice) = major third (consonant) This creates a rich, consonant texture that supports the dominant key. The presence of F# in the first voice, while the answer is in G major, is crucial for establishing the leading tone of the dominant. Therefore, the contrapuntal texture that best enhances the harmonic clarity of the dominant entry is one where the first voice (in the tonic) includes melodic material that strongly implies the dominant key, specifically by featuring the dominant’s leading tone. The calculation is conceptual: identifying the harmonic function of melodic intervals within a contrapuntal framework to establish a new key. No numerical calculation is performed, but rather an analysis of intervallic relationships and their harmonic implications. The question probes the understanding of how melodic lines interact to create harmonic clarity, a fundamental concept in Baroque counterpoint and composition, which is a cornerstone of the curriculum at Heisei College of Music. The ability to analyze these interactions is vital for composers and performers alike, as it underpins the structural integrity and expressive power of music from this era. Understanding the role of the leading tone in establishing tonality, particularly in the context of fugal entries, is a sophisticated skill. This question requires students to think beyond simple transposition and consider the active role of each voice in defining the harmonic landscape. The specific mention of “harmonic clarity of the dominant entry” directs the focus to the crucial moment of modulation and the contrapuntal means used to solidify the new key. This aligns with Heisei College of Music’s emphasis on deep analytical skills and historical performance practice.
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Question 7 of 30
7. Question
In the context of Western tonal music, a fundamental tenet of harmonic progression, heavily emphasized in the theoretical curriculum at Heisei College of Music, is the resolution of dissonant intervals and chromatic tendencies. Consider a standard four-part chorale setting where a dominant seventh chord in root position, specifically a G7 chord, is to resolve to its tonic, a C major chord. Which of the following describes the most structurally sound and melodically idiomatic resolution for the leading tone within the dominant seventh chord?
Correct
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of harmonic progression and voice leading within a contrapuntal context, specifically as applied to the pedagogical approach at Heisei College of Music. A dominant seventh chord in root position, when resolving to its tonic, typically moves to a tonic triad. The dominant seventh chord contains the root, major third, perfect fifth, and minor seventh. The tonic triad contains the root, major third, and perfect fifth. Consider a G7 chord (G-B-D-F) resolving to C major (C-E-G). The G7 chord has the following intervals from the root: root (G), major third (B), perfect fifth (D), minor seventh (F). The C major triad has the following intervals from the root: root (C), major third (E), perfect fifth (G). When resolving G7 to C major, the dominant note (G) in the G7 chord typically moves to the tonic (C) in the C major chord. The leading tone (B) in the G7 chord, being a major third above the root, naturally resolves upwards by a half step to the tonic (C). The seventh of the dominant chord (F) resolves downwards by a step to the third of the tonic chord (E). The fifth of the dominant chord (D) can resolve either up to the root (C) or down to the fifth (G) of the tonic chord. The question asks about the *most common* and *structurally sound* resolution in a four-part chorale texture, emphasizing the principles taught at Heisei College of Music, which often prioritizes smooth voice leading and avoidance of parallel octaves and fifths. Let’s analyze the resolution of each voice: 1. **Root of G7 (G):** Resolves to the tonic (C) of the C major chord. This is a standard upward movement by a perfect fourth. 2. **Third of G7 (B):** As the leading tone, it resolves upwards by a half step to the tonic (C) of the C major chord. 3. **Fifth of G7 (D):** This note can resolve in two primary ways: * Upwards by a whole step to the root (C) of the C major chord. * Downwards by a whole step to the fifth (G) of the C major chord. The downward resolution to G is often preferred in chorale writing to avoid doubling the root of the tonic chord in the soprano and bass simultaneously, and to create a smoother melodic line for the inner voice. 4. **Seventh of G7 (F):** Resolves downwards by a step to the third (E) of the C major chord. Therefore, a typical and pedagogically sound resolution of G7 to C major in four-part harmony would involve the G moving to C, the B moving to C, the D moving to G, and the F moving to E. This results in a C major chord with C in the soprano and bass, E in the alto, and G in the tenor. This configuration avoids parallel motion issues and maintains melodic integrity. The question specifically probes the understanding of the *leading tone’s* resolution, which is a fundamental concept in tonal harmony and a cornerstone of the theoretical training at Heisei College of Music. The leading tone, being a half step below the tonic, has a strong tendency to resolve upwards to the tonic. This upward resolution is crucial for establishing the tonic’s stability and the overall harmonic direction.
Incorrect
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of harmonic progression and voice leading within a contrapuntal context, specifically as applied to the pedagogical approach at Heisei College of Music. A dominant seventh chord in root position, when resolving to its tonic, typically moves to a tonic triad. The dominant seventh chord contains the root, major third, perfect fifth, and minor seventh. The tonic triad contains the root, major third, and perfect fifth. Consider a G7 chord (G-B-D-F) resolving to C major (C-E-G). The G7 chord has the following intervals from the root: root (G), major third (B), perfect fifth (D), minor seventh (F). The C major triad has the following intervals from the root: root (C), major third (E), perfect fifth (G). When resolving G7 to C major, the dominant note (G) in the G7 chord typically moves to the tonic (C) in the C major chord. The leading tone (B) in the G7 chord, being a major third above the root, naturally resolves upwards by a half step to the tonic (C). The seventh of the dominant chord (F) resolves downwards by a step to the third of the tonic chord (E). The fifth of the dominant chord (D) can resolve either up to the root (C) or down to the fifth (G) of the tonic chord. The question asks about the *most common* and *structurally sound* resolution in a four-part chorale texture, emphasizing the principles taught at Heisei College of Music, which often prioritizes smooth voice leading and avoidance of parallel octaves and fifths. Let’s analyze the resolution of each voice: 1. **Root of G7 (G):** Resolves to the tonic (C) of the C major chord. This is a standard upward movement by a perfect fourth. 2. **Third of G7 (B):** As the leading tone, it resolves upwards by a half step to the tonic (C) of the C major chord. 3. **Fifth of G7 (D):** This note can resolve in two primary ways: * Upwards by a whole step to the root (C) of the C major chord. * Downwards by a whole step to the fifth (G) of the C major chord. The downward resolution to G is often preferred in chorale writing to avoid doubling the root of the tonic chord in the soprano and bass simultaneously, and to create a smoother melodic line for the inner voice. 4. **Seventh of G7 (F):** Resolves downwards by a step to the third (E) of the C major chord. Therefore, a typical and pedagogically sound resolution of G7 to C major in four-part harmony would involve the G moving to C, the B moving to C, the D moving to G, and the F moving to E. This results in a C major chord with C in the soprano and bass, E in the alto, and G in the tenor. This configuration avoids parallel motion issues and maintains melodic integrity. The question specifically probes the understanding of the *leading tone’s* resolution, which is a fundamental concept in tonal harmony and a cornerstone of the theoretical training at Heisei College of Music. The leading tone, being a half step below the tonic, has a strong tendency to resolve upwards to the tonic. This upward resolution is crucial for establishing the tonic’s stability and the overall harmonic direction.
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Question 8 of 30
8. Question
Ren, a composition student at Heisei College of Music, is tasked with creating a new work that aims to evoke a profound sense of stillness and introspection. They are contemplating the use of a slow, unfolding modal progression in the harmonic language and the intermittent, sparse use of a syncopated motif within the rhythmic structure. Which of the following approaches best aligns with the objective of cultivating deep contemplation and a meditative atmosphere, consistent with the advanced aesthetic principles explored at Heisei College of Music?
Correct
The scenario describes a composer, Ren, attempting to evoke a sense of profound stillness and introspection in a new piece for the Heisei College of Music. Ren is considering using a specific harmonic progression and rhythmic device. The core concept being tested is the understanding of how musical elements can be manipulated to create specific emotional and psychological effects, particularly within the context of advanced compositional techniques valued at Heisei College of Music. To achieve profound stillness and introspection, a composer would typically employ techniques that minimize forward momentum and encourage contemplation. This often involves: 1. **Harmonic Stasis or Slow Harmonic Rhythm:** Avoiding rapid chord changes or strong cadential progressions that create a sense of resolution and drive. Instead, focusing on sustained chords, modal harmony, or progressions that create ambiguity and a sense of floating. 2. **Rhythmic Simplicity and Repetition:** Employing long note values, minimal rhythmic activity, and perhaps subtle, repetitive patterns that do not demand active engagement but rather allow the listener to sink into the sound. 3. **Dynamic Subtlety and Texture:** Utilizing soft dynamics, sparse textures, and careful control of timbre to create an intimate and introspective atmosphere. Ren’s consideration of a “slow, unfolding modal progression” directly addresses the harmonic aspect by suggesting a departure from functional tonality and a move towards a more static, contemplative sound world. The “intermittent, sparse use of a syncopated motif” addresses the rhythmic element. While syncopation can sometimes create tension, its *sparse* and *intermittent* application, especially if the motif itself is not overly complex or driving, can paradoxically enhance introspection by creating a subtle, almost subconscious pulse that prevents complete inertia without disrupting the overall stillness. It can act as a gentle anchor, a point of focus within the stillness, rather than a disruptive force. Therefore, the combination of a slow, modal harmonic progression and the sparse, intermittent use of a syncopated motif is the most effective strategy for Ren to achieve the desired effect of profound stillness and introspection at Heisei College of Music. This approach balances harmonic contemplation with a subtle rhythmic presence, fostering a meditative rather than a purely static or inert experience. The emphasis on “unfolding” and “sparse” usage highlights a nuanced understanding of how these elements contribute to the overall expressive goal, aligning with the advanced compositional principles fostered at Heisei College of Music.
Incorrect
The scenario describes a composer, Ren, attempting to evoke a sense of profound stillness and introspection in a new piece for the Heisei College of Music. Ren is considering using a specific harmonic progression and rhythmic device. The core concept being tested is the understanding of how musical elements can be manipulated to create specific emotional and psychological effects, particularly within the context of advanced compositional techniques valued at Heisei College of Music. To achieve profound stillness and introspection, a composer would typically employ techniques that minimize forward momentum and encourage contemplation. This often involves: 1. **Harmonic Stasis or Slow Harmonic Rhythm:** Avoiding rapid chord changes or strong cadential progressions that create a sense of resolution and drive. Instead, focusing on sustained chords, modal harmony, or progressions that create ambiguity and a sense of floating. 2. **Rhythmic Simplicity and Repetition:** Employing long note values, minimal rhythmic activity, and perhaps subtle, repetitive patterns that do not demand active engagement but rather allow the listener to sink into the sound. 3. **Dynamic Subtlety and Texture:** Utilizing soft dynamics, sparse textures, and careful control of timbre to create an intimate and introspective atmosphere. Ren’s consideration of a “slow, unfolding modal progression” directly addresses the harmonic aspect by suggesting a departure from functional tonality and a move towards a more static, contemplative sound world. The “intermittent, sparse use of a syncopated motif” addresses the rhythmic element. While syncopation can sometimes create tension, its *sparse* and *intermittent* application, especially if the motif itself is not overly complex or driving, can paradoxically enhance introspection by creating a subtle, almost subconscious pulse that prevents complete inertia without disrupting the overall stillness. It can act as a gentle anchor, a point of focus within the stillness, rather than a disruptive force. Therefore, the combination of a slow, modal harmonic progression and the sparse, intermittent use of a syncopated motif is the most effective strategy for Ren to achieve the desired effect of profound stillness and introspection at Heisei College of Music. This approach balances harmonic contemplation with a subtle rhythmic presence, fostering a meditative rather than a purely static or inert experience. The emphasis on “unfolding” and “sparse” usage highlights a nuanced understanding of how these elements contribute to the overall expressive goal, aligning with the advanced compositional principles fostered at Heisei College of Music.
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Question 9 of 30
9. Question
A student composer at Heisei College of Music is crafting a concluding phrase for a piano sonata, aiming for a definitive perfect authentic cadence in D major. They have reached the dominant seventh chord (A7) in root position. Which of the following voice leading resolutions for the A7 chord to the D major tonic chord would best exemplify the principles of smooth harmonic progression and adherence to traditional cadential structure, ensuring the tonic note (D) is in the soprano voice?
Correct
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of harmonic progression and voice leading within the context of Western classical music theory, a fundamental aspect of study at Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it probes the acceptable resolutions of dominant seventh chords, particularly in cadential contexts. A V7 chord (dominant seventh) in a major key typically resolves to the tonic (I). The leading tone, which is the third of the V7 chord, must resolve upwards by a half step to the tonic. The seventh of the V7 chord, which is a diminished interval above the root, must resolve downwards by step to the third of the tonic chord. Consider a G7 chord in the key of C major. The notes are G, B, D, F. The leading tone is B, which must resolve to C. The seventh is F, which must resolve down to E (the third of the C major chord). The root G typically moves to C, and the fifth D can move to C or E. The question presents a scenario where a composer is writing a passage ending in a perfect authentic cadence. A perfect authentic cadence involves a V chord (or V7) resolving to a I chord, with both chords in root position and the tonic in the highest voice of the I chord. The options present different resolutions of the dominant seventh chord. Option a) describes the correct and most conventional resolution: the leading tone (B) ascends to the tonic (C), and the seventh (F) descends to the third of the tonic chord (E). This maintains smooth voice leading and adheres to established harmonic practice. Option b) suggests the leading tone resolves downwards. This is generally avoided in standard voice leading as it weakens the pull towards the tonic. Option c) proposes the seventh of the dominant seventh chord resolves upwards. This is also contrary to standard practice, as the seventh is a dissonant tone that typically resolves downwards to resolve the dissonance. Option d) presents a scenario where the leading tone resolves to the fifth of the tonic chord, and the seventh resolves to the root. While the seventh can resolve to the root in certain contexts (e.g., if the tonic chord is incomplete), the downward resolution of the leading tone is the primary issue here, making this resolution less ideal and potentially problematic for a perfect authentic cadence. The most fundamental rule for the leading tone in a V7 to I progression is its upward resolution.
Incorrect
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of harmonic progression and voice leading within the context of Western classical music theory, a fundamental aspect of study at Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it probes the acceptable resolutions of dominant seventh chords, particularly in cadential contexts. A V7 chord (dominant seventh) in a major key typically resolves to the tonic (I). The leading tone, which is the third of the V7 chord, must resolve upwards by a half step to the tonic. The seventh of the V7 chord, which is a diminished interval above the root, must resolve downwards by step to the third of the tonic chord. Consider a G7 chord in the key of C major. The notes are G, B, D, F. The leading tone is B, which must resolve to C. The seventh is F, which must resolve down to E (the third of the C major chord). The root G typically moves to C, and the fifth D can move to C or E. The question presents a scenario where a composer is writing a passage ending in a perfect authentic cadence. A perfect authentic cadence involves a V chord (or V7) resolving to a I chord, with both chords in root position and the tonic in the highest voice of the I chord. The options present different resolutions of the dominant seventh chord. Option a) describes the correct and most conventional resolution: the leading tone (B) ascends to the tonic (C), and the seventh (F) descends to the third of the tonic chord (E). This maintains smooth voice leading and adheres to established harmonic practice. Option b) suggests the leading tone resolves downwards. This is generally avoided in standard voice leading as it weakens the pull towards the tonic. Option c) proposes the seventh of the dominant seventh chord resolves upwards. This is also contrary to standard practice, as the seventh is a dissonant tone that typically resolves downwards to resolve the dissonance. Option d) presents a scenario where the leading tone resolves to the fifth of the tonic chord, and the seventh resolves to the root. While the seventh can resolve to the root in certain contexts (e.g., if the tonic chord is incomplete), the downward resolution of the leading tone is the primary issue here, making this resolution less ideal and potentially problematic for a perfect authentic cadence. The most fundamental rule for the leading tone in a V7 to I progression is its upward resolution.
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Question 10 of 30
10. Question
A composer at Heisei College of Music is exploring advanced harmonic vocabulary for a new composition. They are considering a progression that moves from a dominant seventh chord in first inversion (G7/B) to a diminished seventh chord built on the leading tone (B°7), and finally to the tonic chord (C major). Which of the following best describes the harmonic function and voice-leading implications of the B°7 chord in this specific sequence, considering the stylistic expectations of Heisei College of Music’s advanced composition program?
Correct
The question probes the understanding of harmonic progression and voice leading principles within a specific stylistic context, relevant to advanced music theory studies at Heisei College of Music. The scenario involves a progression that deviates from standard functional harmony. Consider a progression in C major: C – Am – F – G7. This is a standard I-vi-IV-V progression. Now, let’s analyze a more complex scenario presented in the question. If a composer at Heisei College of Music were to employ a progression that moves from a dominant seventh chord in first inversion (G7/B) to a diminished seventh chord built on the leading tone (B°7), and then to a tonic chord (C major), the analysis requires careful consideration of voice leading and implied harmonic function. The progression G7/B to B°7 to C major presents a specific challenge. The G7/B chord contains the notes G, B, D, F. The B°7 chord contains the notes B, D, F, Ab. The C major chord contains C, E, G. Let’s examine the voice leading from G7/B to B°7. – The B in the bass of G7/B can move up to C in the tonic chord. – The G in G7/B can remain as a common tone in the C major chord. – The D in G7/B can move down to C in the C major chord. – The F in G7/B can move down to E in the C major chord. Alternatively, considering the B°7 chord: – The B in G7/B can move to C in the tonic. – The D in G7/B can move to D in the B°7. – The F in G7/B can move to F in the B°7. – The G in G7/B can move to Ab in the B°7. The crucial aspect for a Heisei College of Music student is to recognize that the B°7 chord, while containing notes that can resolve smoothly to C major, functions here not as a direct substitute for a dominant chord, but as a chromatic passing chord that intensifies the arrival at the tonic. The diminished seventh chord, particularly when built on the leading tone, creates a strong sense of tension due to its inherent dissonances and its relationship to the tonic. The interval of a diminished seventh (B to Ab) is enharmonically equivalent to a major sixth, but its function is distinct. The resolution of the B°7 to C major involves the leading tone (B) resolving up to the tonic (C), the diminished fifth (B to F) resolving outwards to a major third (C to G), and the diminished seventh (B to Ab) resolving to a major third (C to E) or a perfect fifth (C to G). The Ab typically resolves down to G. The most nuanced understanding of this progression, aligning with the rigorous harmonic analysis expected at Heisei College of Music, is to identify the B°7 as a chord that, while not a standard diatonic chord in C major, creates a powerful chromatic intensification leading to the tonic. It functions as a highly chromaticized dominant preparation, where the leading tone (B) is present, and the diminished quality of the chord creates a heightened sense of anticipation for the tonic resolution. The specific voice leading from G7/B to B°7 to C major would involve careful management of the chromatic alterations and dissonances to ensure smooth melodic lines and a satisfying resolution, reflecting the college’s emphasis on sophisticated compositional techniques and historical performance practices. The diminished seventh chord, in this context, acts as a pivot, creating a moment of heightened chromaticism before the diatonic resolution.
Incorrect
The question probes the understanding of harmonic progression and voice leading principles within a specific stylistic context, relevant to advanced music theory studies at Heisei College of Music. The scenario involves a progression that deviates from standard functional harmony. Consider a progression in C major: C – Am – F – G7. This is a standard I-vi-IV-V progression. Now, let’s analyze a more complex scenario presented in the question. If a composer at Heisei College of Music were to employ a progression that moves from a dominant seventh chord in first inversion (G7/B) to a diminished seventh chord built on the leading tone (B°7), and then to a tonic chord (C major), the analysis requires careful consideration of voice leading and implied harmonic function. The progression G7/B to B°7 to C major presents a specific challenge. The G7/B chord contains the notes G, B, D, F. The B°7 chord contains the notes B, D, F, Ab. The C major chord contains C, E, G. Let’s examine the voice leading from G7/B to B°7. – The B in the bass of G7/B can move up to C in the tonic chord. – The G in G7/B can remain as a common tone in the C major chord. – The D in G7/B can move down to C in the C major chord. – The F in G7/B can move down to E in the C major chord. Alternatively, considering the B°7 chord: – The B in G7/B can move to C in the tonic. – The D in G7/B can move to D in the B°7. – The F in G7/B can move to F in the B°7. – The G in G7/B can move to Ab in the B°7. The crucial aspect for a Heisei College of Music student is to recognize that the B°7 chord, while containing notes that can resolve smoothly to C major, functions here not as a direct substitute for a dominant chord, but as a chromatic passing chord that intensifies the arrival at the tonic. The diminished seventh chord, particularly when built on the leading tone, creates a strong sense of tension due to its inherent dissonances and its relationship to the tonic. The interval of a diminished seventh (B to Ab) is enharmonically equivalent to a major sixth, but its function is distinct. The resolution of the B°7 to C major involves the leading tone (B) resolving up to the tonic (C), the diminished fifth (B to F) resolving outwards to a major third (C to G), and the diminished seventh (B to Ab) resolving to a major third (C to E) or a perfect fifth (C to G). The Ab typically resolves down to G. The most nuanced understanding of this progression, aligning with the rigorous harmonic analysis expected at Heisei College of Music, is to identify the B°7 as a chord that, while not a standard diatonic chord in C major, creates a powerful chromatic intensification leading to the tonic. It functions as a highly chromaticized dominant preparation, where the leading tone (B) is present, and the diminished quality of the chord creates a heightened sense of anticipation for the tonic resolution. The specific voice leading from G7/B to B°7 to C major would involve careful management of the chromatic alterations and dissonances to ensure smooth melodic lines and a satisfying resolution, reflecting the college’s emphasis on sophisticated compositional techniques and historical performance practices. The diminished seventh chord, in this context, acts as a pivot, creating a moment of heightened chromaticism before the diatonic resolution.
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Question 11 of 30
11. Question
Kenji, a composition student at Heisei College of Music, is crafting a piece that begins with a C major seventh chord and proceeds through a sequence: F# minor seventh flat five, B altered dominant seventh, and finally resolves to E minor. To understand the harmonic logic of the F#m7b5 to B7alt transition and its subsequent resolution to Em, which theoretical concept most accurately describes the functional relationship between these chords within the context of the overall progression, considering the initial Cmaj7 as a reference point?
Correct
The scenario describes a composer, Kenji, working with a specific harmonic progression in a contemporary classical piece intended for performance at the Heisei College of Music. The progression is presented as a series of chords: Cmaj7 – F#m7b5 – B7alt – Em. The question asks to identify the most appropriate theoretical framework for analyzing the relationship between the F#m7b5 and B7alt chords within this progression, considering the established tonal center of C major. The F#m7b5 chord, when analyzed in relation to C major, functions as a iiø7 chord in the key of E minor (the relative minor of G major, which is the dominant of C major). However, its placement after Cmaj7 and before B7alt suggests a more chromatic or modulatory movement. The B7alt chord is a dominant seventh chord with altered tones (e.g., sharpened or flattened fifths and ninths), which strongly points towards resolving to E minor. The “alt” designation specifically indicates alterations, often leading tones or chromatic passing tones. Considering the progression Cmaj7 – F#m7b5 – B7alt – Em, the F#m7b5 can be interpreted as a Neapolitan chord (bII) in the key of E minor, where E minor is functioning as a tonic. However, the progression starts with Cmaj7, implying C as a potential tonic. If C is the tonic, F#m7b5 is a highly chromatic alteration. A more common and theoretically sound interpretation, especially in post-tonal or extended tonal contexts often explored at Heisei College of Music, is to view the F#m7b5 as a pivot chord or a chord that facilitates a chromatic shift. The relationship between F#m7b5 and B7alt is that of a iiø7 – V7 (or V7alt) in the key of E minor. The F#m7b5 is the supertonic chord in E minor, and the B7alt is the dominant chord in E minor. The progression then moves to Em, confirming this E minor resolution. Therefore, the most fitting analytical framework for this specific segment (F#m7b5 – B7alt – Em) is the analysis of secondary dominants or, more broadly, chromatic mediant relationships and altered dominant functions within a potential secondary key area. Given the options, the concept of secondary dominant function, where the B7alt acts as a dominant to Em, and the F#m7b5 acts as its pre-dominant (iiø7), is the most direct and applicable theoretical lens for this specific transition. While other chromatic devices might be present in the broader context of the piece, this segment strongly exhibits a secondary dominant movement. The correct answer is the analysis of secondary dominant function.
Incorrect
The scenario describes a composer, Kenji, working with a specific harmonic progression in a contemporary classical piece intended for performance at the Heisei College of Music. The progression is presented as a series of chords: Cmaj7 – F#m7b5 – B7alt – Em. The question asks to identify the most appropriate theoretical framework for analyzing the relationship between the F#m7b5 and B7alt chords within this progression, considering the established tonal center of C major. The F#m7b5 chord, when analyzed in relation to C major, functions as a iiø7 chord in the key of E minor (the relative minor of G major, which is the dominant of C major). However, its placement after Cmaj7 and before B7alt suggests a more chromatic or modulatory movement. The B7alt chord is a dominant seventh chord with altered tones (e.g., sharpened or flattened fifths and ninths), which strongly points towards resolving to E minor. The “alt” designation specifically indicates alterations, often leading tones or chromatic passing tones. Considering the progression Cmaj7 – F#m7b5 – B7alt – Em, the F#m7b5 can be interpreted as a Neapolitan chord (bII) in the key of E minor, where E minor is functioning as a tonic. However, the progression starts with Cmaj7, implying C as a potential tonic. If C is the tonic, F#m7b5 is a highly chromatic alteration. A more common and theoretically sound interpretation, especially in post-tonal or extended tonal contexts often explored at Heisei College of Music, is to view the F#m7b5 as a pivot chord or a chord that facilitates a chromatic shift. The relationship between F#m7b5 and B7alt is that of a iiø7 – V7 (or V7alt) in the key of E minor. The F#m7b5 is the supertonic chord in E minor, and the B7alt is the dominant chord in E minor. The progression then moves to Em, confirming this E minor resolution. Therefore, the most fitting analytical framework for this specific segment (F#m7b5 – B7alt – Em) is the analysis of secondary dominants or, more broadly, chromatic mediant relationships and altered dominant functions within a potential secondary key area. Given the options, the concept of secondary dominant function, where the B7alt acts as a dominant to Em, and the F#m7b5 acts as its pre-dominant (iiø7), is the most direct and applicable theoretical lens for this specific transition. While other chromatic devices might be present in the broader context of the piece, this segment strongly exhibits a secondary dominant movement. The correct answer is the analysis of secondary dominant function.
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Question 12 of 30
12. Question
Considering the rigorous harmonic and contrapuntal standards upheld at the Heisei College of Music, analyze the most stylistically appropriate resolution for the leading tone when a dominant seventh chord in its second inversion (\(V^6_5\)) resolves to a tonic triad in root position, with the leading tone situated in the highest melodic line.
Correct
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of harmonic progression and voice leading within a contrapuntal context, specifically as applied to the stylistic expectations of the Heisei College of Music. A dominant seventh chord in root position, when resolving to its tonic, typically moves to a root-position tonic triad. The dominant seventh chord, \(V^7\), contains the root, third, fifth, and seventh of the dominant scale. For example, in C major, \(G^7\) consists of G, B, D, and F. The resolution to \(I\) (C major triad: C, E, G) involves specific voice-leading considerations. The leading tone (B in \(G^7\)) must resolve upwards to the tonic (C). The seventh of the chord (F in \(G^7\)) must resolve downwards by step to the third of the tonic chord (E). The root of the dominant chord (G) typically moves to the tonic root (C), and the fifth of the dominant chord (D) can move to either the tonic root (C) or the tonic fifth (G). However, the question presents a scenario where the dominant seventh chord is in second inversion (\(V^6_5\)). In this inversion, the third of the dominant chord is in the bass. For instance, in C major, \(G^7/B\) has B in the bass. The standard resolution of \(V^6_5\) to \(I\) involves the leading tone (B) resolving upwards to C, and the seventh (F) resolving downwards to E. The bass note (B) moves to the tonic root (C). The remaining voices must also adhere to smooth melodic contours and avoid parallel fifths and octaves. The specific scenario described involves a \(V^6_5\) chord in a composition intended for performance at Heisei College of Music, implying a need for adherence to established Western classical harmonic practices. The question asks about the most stylistically appropriate resolution for the leading tone when the dominant seventh chord is in second inversion and the tonic chord is in root position. In \(V^6_5\), the leading tone is in the soprano voice. When resolving to a root-position tonic triad, the leading tone (which is the third of the dominant chord) must ascend by a half step to the tonic root. This upward resolution is crucial for establishing the tonic’s stability and is a fundamental tenet of tonal harmony. Therefore, the leading tone in the soprano voice of a \(V^6_5\) chord resolving to a root-position tonic triad will move up by a semitone to the tonic root.
Incorrect
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of harmonic progression and voice leading within a contrapuntal context, specifically as applied to the stylistic expectations of the Heisei College of Music. A dominant seventh chord in root position, when resolving to its tonic, typically moves to a root-position tonic triad. The dominant seventh chord, \(V^7\), contains the root, third, fifth, and seventh of the dominant scale. For example, in C major, \(G^7\) consists of G, B, D, and F. The resolution to \(I\) (C major triad: C, E, G) involves specific voice-leading considerations. The leading tone (B in \(G^7\)) must resolve upwards to the tonic (C). The seventh of the chord (F in \(G^7\)) must resolve downwards by step to the third of the tonic chord (E). The root of the dominant chord (G) typically moves to the tonic root (C), and the fifth of the dominant chord (D) can move to either the tonic root (C) or the tonic fifth (G). However, the question presents a scenario where the dominant seventh chord is in second inversion (\(V^6_5\)). In this inversion, the third of the dominant chord is in the bass. For instance, in C major, \(G^7/B\) has B in the bass. The standard resolution of \(V^6_5\) to \(I\) involves the leading tone (B) resolving upwards to C, and the seventh (F) resolving downwards to E. The bass note (B) moves to the tonic root (C). The remaining voices must also adhere to smooth melodic contours and avoid parallel fifths and octaves. The specific scenario described involves a \(V^6_5\) chord in a composition intended for performance at Heisei College of Music, implying a need for adherence to established Western classical harmonic practices. The question asks about the most stylistically appropriate resolution for the leading tone when the dominant seventh chord is in second inversion and the tonic chord is in root position. In \(V^6_5\), the leading tone is in the soprano voice. When resolving to a root-position tonic triad, the leading tone (which is the third of the dominant chord) must ascend by a half step to the tonic root. This upward resolution is crucial for establishing the tonic’s stability and is a fundamental tenet of tonal harmony. Therefore, the leading tone in the soprano voice of a \(V^6_5\) chord resolving to a root-position tonic triad will move up by a semitone to the tonic root.
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Question 13 of 30
13. Question
During a composition seminar at Heisei College of Music, a student presents a short musical passage intended to conclude with a strong dominant-tonic cadence. Upon review, the instructor identifies a significant harmonic and voice-leading error that deviates from standard Western tonal practice. Which of the following descriptions of the student’s progression most clearly illustrates a fundamental misunderstanding of cadential voice leading principles?
Correct
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of harmonic progression and voice leading within the context of Western classical music theory, a fundamental area of study at Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it probes the student’s ability to identify a progression that deviates from standard cadential practices, particularly in the context of a dominant-tonic resolution. A standard V-I cadence in a major key typically involves the dominant chord (V) resolving to the tonic chord (I). The dominant chord, often a dominant seventh (V7), creates a strong pull towards the tonic. The leading tone in the dominant chord (the third of the V chord, which is the seventh scale degree of the key) must resolve upwards by a half step to the tonic. The seventh of the dominant seventh chord (the fourth scale degree of the key) typically resolves downwards by step to the third of the tonic chord. Consider a progression in C Major. The V chord is G Major (G-B-D) or G7 (G-B-D-F). The I chord is C Major (C-E-G). – If the V chord is G Major, the leading tone is B. B resolves to C. – If the V chord is G7, the leading tone is B, which resolves to C. The seventh is F, which resolves to E (the third of the C Major chord). Now let’s analyze the options in terms of voice leading and harmonic function, assuming a common practice period context relevant to Heisei College of Music’s curriculum. Option 1: A progression where the dominant chord’s leading tone resolves downwards. For example, in C Major, a G Major chord (G-B-D) where the B resolves to A instead of C. This is highly irregular for a V-I resolution. Option 2: A progression where the dominant seventh chord’s seventh resolves upwards. For instance, in C Major, a G7 chord (G-B-D-F) where the F resolves to G instead of E. This is also a significant deviation from standard voice leading. Option 3: A progression that utilizes a deceptive cadence, where the dominant chord resolves to a chord other than the tonic, typically the submediant (vi). For example, in C Major, G7 resolving to Am. This is a common and accepted harmonic device, not an error in voice leading or harmonic function in the same way as the previous examples. Option 4: A progression where the dominant chord is followed by a chord that shares no common tones with the tonic and has a weak harmonic relationship, and the voice leading is awkward. For instance, in C Major, a G chord followed by an F# diminished chord, with the leading tone B resolving to F#. This creates a significant disruption in the expected harmonic flow and proper voice leading. The F# diminished chord (F#-A-C) has no common tones with C Major (C-E-G) and the resolution of B to F# is a diminished fifth, which is dissonant and typically requires careful handling, especially when it’s the leading tone of the dominant. This type of progression would be considered a significant departure from standard cadential practices taught at Heisei College of Music, indicating a misunderstanding of fundamental harmonic principles. Therefore, a progression that features the dominant chord’s leading tone resolving to a note other than the tonic, or the dominant seventh’s seventh resolving incorrectly, or a highly unusual harmonic progression that breaks established voice-leading rules, would be the most indicative of a fundamental error. The question asks for a scenario that *most* clearly demonstrates a misunderstanding of harmonic progression and voice leading principles as taught at Heisei College of Music. A progression where the leading tone of the dominant chord resolves downwards to a note that is not the tonic, and the dominant seventh’s seventh also resolves unconventionally, creating a highly dissonant and functionally weak resolution, would be the most egregious error. Let’s refine this. The question is about identifying a *misunderstanding* of harmonic progression and voice leading. A deceptive cadence is a *correct* harmonic device. Therefore, options that describe a deceptive cadence are incorrect answers to the question. We are looking for a progression that is fundamentally flawed according to common practice period rules. Consider a progression in A minor. The dominant is E Major (E-G#-B) or E7 (E-G#-B-D). The tonic is A minor (A-C-E). – V-i: E7 to Am. G# resolves to A. D resolves to C. B is the root of E7 and can remain or move. – A progression where the leading tone (G#) resolves to F# (a downward step) and the seventh (D) resolves to E (upward step) would be incorrect. Let’s construct a scenario that clearly violates voice leading rules for a cadence. In C Major: V chord: G Major (G-B-D) I chord: C Major (C-E-G) Leading tone: B. Expected resolution: C. If B resolves to A, this is incorrect. V7 chord: G7 (G-B-D-F) I chord: C Major (C-E-G) Leading tone: B. Expected resolution: C. Seventh: F. Expected resolution: E. If B resolves to G, and F resolves to G, this is a significant error. The question asks for a scenario that demonstrates a misunderstanding of harmonic progression and voice leading. This implies a deviation from expected resolutions that are fundamental to creating coherent musical phrases and cadences. The most direct violation of these principles would involve the leading tone and the seventh of a dominant chord. Let’s assume the question is testing the ability to identify a progression that breaks the rules of voice leading for a V-I cadence. A progression where the leading tone of the dominant chord resolves downwards by a step or more, or where the seventh of the dominant seventh chord resolves upwards, would be a clear indicator of misunderstanding. Consider a scenario where a composer is attempting a V-I cadence in D Major. The V chord is A Major (A-C#-E). The leading tone is C#. It must resolve to D. If the C# resolves to B, this is a clear error. The V7 chord is A7 (A-C#-E-G). The seventh is G. It must resolve to F#. If the G resolves to A, this is also an error. The question asks for a scenario that *most* clearly demonstrates a misunderstanding. A deceptive cadence is a correct technique. Therefore, any option describing a deceptive cadence is incorrect. We need to find an option that describes a faulty voice leading or harmonic progression. Let’s consider the options in terms of their harmonic function and voice leading: – A progression that uses a deceptive cadence (e.g., V-vi) is a correct harmonic device and does not demonstrate a misunderstanding. – A progression that correctly resolves the leading tone upwards and the seventh downwards in a V-I cadence is also correct. – A progression that incorrectly resolves the leading tone downwards or the seventh upwards in a V-I cadence demonstrates a misunderstanding. – A progression that uses a highly unusual or dissonant chord following the dominant without proper preparation or resolution, and with awkward voice leading, would also indicate a misunderstanding. The question is designed to test the understanding of fundamental voice leading rules for cadences. The most direct violation of these rules, and thus the clearest indicator of misunderstanding, would be the incorrect resolution of the leading tone or the seventh of the dominant chord. Let’s assume the question is about a V-I cadence. In C Major, V is G-B-D. Leading tone is B. If B moves to A, this is a downward step, not the required upward resolution to C. This is a clear error. In C Major, V7 is G-B-D-F. Leading tone is B, seventh is F. B must go to C. F must go to E. If B goes to G, and F goes to G, this is a significant error. The question asks for the *most* clear demonstration of misunderstanding. A progression that incorrectly resolves the leading tone of the dominant chord downwards, while also failing to resolve the seventh of the dominant seventh chord correctly, would be a strong indicator. Let’s consider the scenario of a composer at Heisei College of Music attempting to write a strong cadential progression. If they write a dominant chord and then move the leading tone down to the sixth of the tonic chord, and the seventh of the dominant seventh chord up to the root of the tonic chord, this would be a fundamental error. Example in G Major: V chord: D Major (D-F#-A). Leading tone: F#. Must resolve to G. V7 chord: D7 (D-F#-A-C). Leading tone: F#. Seventh: C. I chord: G Major (G-B-D). If F# resolves to E (downward step), and C resolves to G (upward step), this is a clear misunderstanding of voice leading principles for a V-I cadence. The correct answer is the option that describes such a flawed voice leading in a cadential context. The calculation is conceptual: identifying the expected resolution of the leading tone and seventh of the dominant chord and then finding the option that violates these expectations. Final check: The question is not about mathematical calculations. It’s about theoretical understanding of harmony and voice leading. The explanation should detail why the chosen option represents a misunderstanding of these core concepts as taught at Heisei College of Music. The explanation should focus on the principles of leading tone and seventh resolution in dominant chords. The correct answer is the one that describes a progression where the leading tone of the dominant chord resolves downwards, and the seventh of the dominant seventh chord resolves upwards, in a context that is clearly intended to be a dominant-tonic resolution. This demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding of the harmonic tension and release inherent in such cadences. Let’s assume the question is about a V-I cadence in F Major. V chord: C Major (C-E-G). Leading tone: E. Must resolve to F. V7 chord: C7 (C-E-G-Bb). Leading tone: E. Seventh: Bb. I chord: F Major (F-A-C). If E resolves to D (downward step), and Bb resolves to C (upward step), this is a clear misunderstanding. The calculation is to identify the leading tone and seventh of the dominant chord and their required resolutions to the tonic chord. Then, identify the option that presents an incorrect resolution for both. Leading tone of V in Major/Minor: 7th scale degree. Resolves up by half step to tonic. Seventh of V7 in Major/Minor: 4th scale degree. Resolves down by step to 3rd of tonic. If the leading tone resolves down, or the seventh resolves up, it breaks the expected harmonic flow and creates an unresolved dissonance or a weak cadence. This is the core concept being tested. The correct answer is the option that describes a progression where the leading tone of the dominant chord resolves downwards, and the seventh of the dominant seventh chord resolves upwards, in a context that is clearly intended to be a dominant-tonic resolution. This demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding of the harmonic tension and release inherent in such cadences, which is a critical concept for students at Heisei College of Music.
Incorrect
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of harmonic progression and voice leading within the context of Western classical music theory, a fundamental area of study at Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it probes the student’s ability to identify a progression that deviates from standard cadential practices, particularly in the context of a dominant-tonic resolution. A standard V-I cadence in a major key typically involves the dominant chord (V) resolving to the tonic chord (I). The dominant chord, often a dominant seventh (V7), creates a strong pull towards the tonic. The leading tone in the dominant chord (the third of the V chord, which is the seventh scale degree of the key) must resolve upwards by a half step to the tonic. The seventh of the dominant seventh chord (the fourth scale degree of the key) typically resolves downwards by step to the third of the tonic chord. Consider a progression in C Major. The V chord is G Major (G-B-D) or G7 (G-B-D-F). The I chord is C Major (C-E-G). – If the V chord is G Major, the leading tone is B. B resolves to C. – If the V chord is G7, the leading tone is B, which resolves to C. The seventh is F, which resolves to E (the third of the C Major chord). Now let’s analyze the options in terms of voice leading and harmonic function, assuming a common practice period context relevant to Heisei College of Music’s curriculum. Option 1: A progression where the dominant chord’s leading tone resolves downwards. For example, in C Major, a G Major chord (G-B-D) where the B resolves to A instead of C. This is highly irregular for a V-I resolution. Option 2: A progression where the dominant seventh chord’s seventh resolves upwards. For instance, in C Major, a G7 chord (G-B-D-F) where the F resolves to G instead of E. This is also a significant deviation from standard voice leading. Option 3: A progression that utilizes a deceptive cadence, where the dominant chord resolves to a chord other than the tonic, typically the submediant (vi). For example, in C Major, G7 resolving to Am. This is a common and accepted harmonic device, not an error in voice leading or harmonic function in the same way as the previous examples. Option 4: A progression where the dominant chord is followed by a chord that shares no common tones with the tonic and has a weak harmonic relationship, and the voice leading is awkward. For instance, in C Major, a G chord followed by an F# diminished chord, with the leading tone B resolving to F#. This creates a significant disruption in the expected harmonic flow and proper voice leading. The F# diminished chord (F#-A-C) has no common tones with C Major (C-E-G) and the resolution of B to F# is a diminished fifth, which is dissonant and typically requires careful handling, especially when it’s the leading tone of the dominant. This type of progression would be considered a significant departure from standard cadential practices taught at Heisei College of Music, indicating a misunderstanding of fundamental harmonic principles. Therefore, a progression that features the dominant chord’s leading tone resolving to a note other than the tonic, or the dominant seventh’s seventh resolving incorrectly, or a highly unusual harmonic progression that breaks established voice-leading rules, would be the most indicative of a fundamental error. The question asks for a scenario that *most* clearly demonstrates a misunderstanding of harmonic progression and voice leading principles as taught at Heisei College of Music. A progression where the leading tone of the dominant chord resolves downwards to a note that is not the tonic, and the dominant seventh’s seventh also resolves unconventionally, creating a highly dissonant and functionally weak resolution, would be the most egregious error. Let’s refine this. The question is about identifying a *misunderstanding* of harmonic progression and voice leading. A deceptive cadence is a *correct* harmonic device. Therefore, options that describe a deceptive cadence are incorrect answers to the question. We are looking for a progression that is fundamentally flawed according to common practice period rules. Consider a progression in A minor. The dominant is E Major (E-G#-B) or E7 (E-G#-B-D). The tonic is A minor (A-C-E). – V-i: E7 to Am. G# resolves to A. D resolves to C. B is the root of E7 and can remain or move. – A progression where the leading tone (G#) resolves to F# (a downward step) and the seventh (D) resolves to E (upward step) would be incorrect. Let’s construct a scenario that clearly violates voice leading rules for a cadence. In C Major: V chord: G Major (G-B-D) I chord: C Major (C-E-G) Leading tone: B. Expected resolution: C. If B resolves to A, this is incorrect. V7 chord: G7 (G-B-D-F) I chord: C Major (C-E-G) Leading tone: B. Expected resolution: C. Seventh: F. Expected resolution: E. If B resolves to G, and F resolves to G, this is a significant error. The question asks for a scenario that demonstrates a misunderstanding of harmonic progression and voice leading. This implies a deviation from expected resolutions that are fundamental to creating coherent musical phrases and cadences. The most direct violation of these principles would involve the leading tone and the seventh of a dominant chord. Let’s assume the question is testing the ability to identify a progression that breaks the rules of voice leading for a V-I cadence. A progression where the leading tone of the dominant chord resolves downwards by a step or more, or where the seventh of the dominant seventh chord resolves upwards, would be a clear indicator of misunderstanding. Consider a scenario where a composer is attempting a V-I cadence in D Major. The V chord is A Major (A-C#-E). The leading tone is C#. It must resolve to D. If the C# resolves to B, this is a clear error. The V7 chord is A7 (A-C#-E-G). The seventh is G. It must resolve to F#. If the G resolves to A, this is also an error. The question asks for a scenario that *most* clearly demonstrates a misunderstanding. A deceptive cadence is a correct technique. Therefore, any option describing a deceptive cadence is incorrect. We need to find an option that describes a faulty voice leading or harmonic progression. Let’s consider the options in terms of their harmonic function and voice leading: – A progression that uses a deceptive cadence (e.g., V-vi) is a correct harmonic device and does not demonstrate a misunderstanding. – A progression that correctly resolves the leading tone upwards and the seventh downwards in a V-I cadence is also correct. – A progression that incorrectly resolves the leading tone downwards or the seventh upwards in a V-I cadence demonstrates a misunderstanding. – A progression that uses a highly unusual or dissonant chord following the dominant without proper preparation or resolution, and with awkward voice leading, would also indicate a misunderstanding. The question is designed to test the understanding of fundamental voice leading rules for cadences. The most direct violation of these rules, and thus the clearest indicator of misunderstanding, would be the incorrect resolution of the leading tone or the seventh of the dominant chord. Let’s assume the question is about a V-I cadence. In C Major, V is G-B-D. Leading tone is B. If B moves to A, this is a downward step, not the required upward resolution to C. This is a clear error. In C Major, V7 is G-B-D-F. Leading tone is B, seventh is F. B must go to C. F must go to E. If B goes to G, and F goes to G, this is a significant error. The question asks for the *most* clear demonstration of misunderstanding. A progression that incorrectly resolves the leading tone of the dominant chord downwards, while also failing to resolve the seventh of the dominant seventh chord correctly, would be a strong indicator. Let’s consider the scenario of a composer at Heisei College of Music attempting to write a strong cadential progression. If they write a dominant chord and then move the leading tone down to the sixth of the tonic chord, and the seventh of the dominant seventh chord up to the root of the tonic chord, this would be a fundamental error. Example in G Major: V chord: D Major (D-F#-A). Leading tone: F#. Must resolve to G. V7 chord: D7 (D-F#-A-C). Leading tone: F#. Seventh: C. I chord: G Major (G-B-D). If F# resolves to E (downward step), and C resolves to G (upward step), this is a clear misunderstanding of voice leading principles for a V-I cadence. The correct answer is the option that describes such a flawed voice leading in a cadential context. The calculation is conceptual: identifying the expected resolution of the leading tone and seventh of the dominant chord and then finding the option that violates these expectations. Final check: The question is not about mathematical calculations. It’s about theoretical understanding of harmony and voice leading. The explanation should detail why the chosen option represents a misunderstanding of these core concepts as taught at Heisei College of Music. The explanation should focus on the principles of leading tone and seventh resolution in dominant chords. The correct answer is the one that describes a progression where the leading tone of the dominant chord resolves downwards, and the seventh of the dominant seventh chord resolves upwards, in a context that is clearly intended to be a dominant-tonic resolution. This demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding of the harmonic tension and release inherent in such cadences. Let’s assume the question is about a V-I cadence in F Major. V chord: C Major (C-E-G). Leading tone: E. Must resolve to F. V7 chord: C7 (C-E-G-Bb). Leading tone: E. Seventh: Bb. I chord: F Major (F-A-C). If E resolves to D (downward step), and Bb resolves to C (upward step), this is a clear misunderstanding. The calculation is to identify the leading tone and seventh of the dominant chord and their required resolutions to the tonic chord. Then, identify the option that presents an incorrect resolution for both. Leading tone of V in Major/Minor: 7th scale degree. Resolves up by half step to tonic. Seventh of V7 in Major/Minor: 4th scale degree. Resolves down by step to 3rd of tonic. If the leading tone resolves down, or the seventh resolves up, it breaks the expected harmonic flow and creates an unresolved dissonance or a weak cadence. This is the core concept being tested. The correct answer is the option that describes a progression where the leading tone of the dominant chord resolves downwards, and the seventh of the dominant seventh chord resolves upwards, in a context that is clearly intended to be a dominant-tonic resolution. This demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding of the harmonic tension and release inherent in such cadences, which is a critical concept for students at Heisei College of Music.
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Question 14 of 30
14. Question
During a compositional analysis exercise for an advanced harmony course at Heisei College of Music, a student encounters the following chord progression: G Major to C# Major to D Major, ultimately resolving to G Major. Which specific melodic interval created by the movement between the C# Major chord and the D Major chord presents the most significant voice-leading consideration from a traditional Western tonal perspective, demanding careful handling by the composer?
Correct
The question probes the understanding of harmonic progression and voice leading principles within a specific compositional context relevant to Heisei College of Music’s curriculum. The scenario involves a progression that, while superficially appearing to resolve to a tonic, contains a subtle harmonic ambiguity and a potential voice-leading issue that advanced students should identify. Consider a standard V-I cadence in C major. The V chord is G-B-D. The I chord is C-E-G. A common resolution involves the leading tone (B) resolving upwards to the tonic (C). However, if the progression is altered to include a diminished chord, such as a vii° chord (B-D-F) leading to I (C-E-G), the voice leading of the leading tone (B) to C remains the same. The question, however, presents a progression that *appears* to be a dominant function but is subtly altered. Let’s analyze the provided progression: Chord 1: G-B-D (G Major) Chord 2: C#-E-G# (C# Major) Chord 3: D-F#-A (D Major) Chord 4: G-B-D (G Major) The progression is G Major -> C# Major -> D Major -> G Major. The core issue lies in the transition from the C# Major chord to the D Major chord. In a typical tonal context, a C# Major chord would function as a secondary dominant (V/D) or a Neapolitan chord in certain contexts. However, its direct progression to D Major (which is V of G Major) creates a chromatic mediant relationship or a more complex harmonic movement. The critical voice-leading consideration arises from the leading tone of the implied dominant of G Major, which is F#. In the D Major chord (D-F#-A), F# is present. The progression to G Major (G-B-D) requires the F# to resolve. The standard resolution for F# in this context (as the leading tone to G) is upwards to G. However, the question focuses on the *most problematic* aspect from a traditional Western tonal harmony perspective, often emphasized in foundational music theory at institutions like Heisei College of Music. The C# Major chord contains C#, E, and G#. The D Major chord contains D, F#, and A. The transition from C# to D is a chromatic alteration. The E in the C# chord moving to F# in the D chord is a standard semitone ascent. The G# in the C# chord moving to A in the D chord is a whole tone ascent. The most significant voice-leading issue, and the one that deviates most from smooth, conventional part-writing, is the movement of the C# in the C# Major chord to the D in the D Major chord. While not strictly forbidden, this chromatic alteration in the bass or an inner voice can create a less “singable” line compared to diatonic movements, especially when considering the overall harmonic context. Let’s re-evaluate the options in light of a common error in analyzing chromatic mediants or secondary dominants. The progression G Major to C# Major is a chromatic mediant relationship (G major is I in G, C# major is III in A minor, or a chromatic alteration of the mediant). The C# Major chord’s function is ambiguous. If we consider it as a secondary dominant to D Major (V/V in G), then C# should be C# (leading tone to D), E (mediant of C#), and G# (dominant of C#). The progression to D Major (D-F#-A) is indeed V of G. The F# in the D Major chord is the leading tone to G. The most conventional resolution for F# is to G. The question asks about the *most significant* voice-leading issue in the transition from the C# Major chord to the D Major chord, considering the subsequent resolution to G Major. The C# Major chord contains C#, E, G#. The D Major chord contains D, F#, A. The problematic movement is the C# to D. This is a chromatic step. While not inherently “wrong,” it’s a point of harmonic tension that requires careful handling. The E to F# is a diatonic semitone. The G# to A is a whole tone. The most jarring or unconventional movement, particularly in a context where smooth voice leading is paramount, is the chromatic ascent of the root of the C# chord to the root of the D chord. This is often seen as a less elegant solution than a diatonic or a more conventional chromatic movement. Therefore, the most significant voice-leading issue in the transition from C# Major to D Major, in preparation for a resolution to G Major, is the chromatic ascent of the C# to D. This is because C# is not functioning as a diatonic note within the key of G, and its movement to D creates a chromatic interval that can be perceived as less smooth than diatonic voice leading. The F# in the D chord correctly leads to G. The E in the C# chord moving to F# in the D chord is a semitone, which is acceptable. The G# in the C# chord moving to A in the D chord is a whole tone, also acceptable. The C# to D is the most harmonically disruptive interval. Final Answer is the chromatic ascent of C# to D. The question tests the understanding of voice leading principles within chromatic harmony, a core component of advanced music theory at Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it examines how chromatic alterations affect the smoothness and conventionality of melodic lines within a harmonic progression. The scenario presents a sequence of chords that moves from a tonic (G Major) to a chromatic mediant (C# Major), then to the dominant (D Major), and finally back to the tonic. While each chord individually might be analyzed, the transition between them, particularly the C# Major to D Major, presents a critical voice-leading challenge. In traditional Western tonal harmony, smooth voice leading often involves stepwise motion or common tones. The C# in the C# Major chord, when moving to the D in the D Major chord, creates a chromatic ascent. This chromatic movement, especially in an inner voice or bass, can be perceived as less fluid than diatonic stepwise motion. The other intervals in the transition (E to F# and G# to A) are either diatonic semitones or whole tones, which are generally considered more conventional. The F# in the D Major chord correctly functions as the leading tone to the tonic G, resolving upwards. The ambiguity of the C# Major chord’s function and its chromatic relationship to the subsequent D Major chord makes the C# to D movement the most significant point of consideration for a student aiming for mastery in compositional techniques taught at Heisei College of Music. This type of analysis requires not just identifying chords but understanding their functional relationships and the resulting melodic implications for individual voices.
Incorrect
The question probes the understanding of harmonic progression and voice leading principles within a specific compositional context relevant to Heisei College of Music’s curriculum. The scenario involves a progression that, while superficially appearing to resolve to a tonic, contains a subtle harmonic ambiguity and a potential voice-leading issue that advanced students should identify. Consider a standard V-I cadence in C major. The V chord is G-B-D. The I chord is C-E-G. A common resolution involves the leading tone (B) resolving upwards to the tonic (C). However, if the progression is altered to include a diminished chord, such as a vii° chord (B-D-F) leading to I (C-E-G), the voice leading of the leading tone (B) to C remains the same. The question, however, presents a progression that *appears* to be a dominant function but is subtly altered. Let’s analyze the provided progression: Chord 1: G-B-D (G Major) Chord 2: C#-E-G# (C# Major) Chord 3: D-F#-A (D Major) Chord 4: G-B-D (G Major) The progression is G Major -> C# Major -> D Major -> G Major. The core issue lies in the transition from the C# Major chord to the D Major chord. In a typical tonal context, a C# Major chord would function as a secondary dominant (V/D) or a Neapolitan chord in certain contexts. However, its direct progression to D Major (which is V of G Major) creates a chromatic mediant relationship or a more complex harmonic movement. The critical voice-leading consideration arises from the leading tone of the implied dominant of G Major, which is F#. In the D Major chord (D-F#-A), F# is present. The progression to G Major (G-B-D) requires the F# to resolve. The standard resolution for F# in this context (as the leading tone to G) is upwards to G. However, the question focuses on the *most problematic* aspect from a traditional Western tonal harmony perspective, often emphasized in foundational music theory at institutions like Heisei College of Music. The C# Major chord contains C#, E, and G#. The D Major chord contains D, F#, and A. The transition from C# to D is a chromatic alteration. The E in the C# chord moving to F# in the D chord is a standard semitone ascent. The G# in the C# chord moving to A in the D chord is a whole tone ascent. The most significant voice-leading issue, and the one that deviates most from smooth, conventional part-writing, is the movement of the C# in the C# Major chord to the D in the D Major chord. While not strictly forbidden, this chromatic alteration in the bass or an inner voice can create a less “singable” line compared to diatonic movements, especially when considering the overall harmonic context. Let’s re-evaluate the options in light of a common error in analyzing chromatic mediants or secondary dominants. The progression G Major to C# Major is a chromatic mediant relationship (G major is I in G, C# major is III in A minor, or a chromatic alteration of the mediant). The C# Major chord’s function is ambiguous. If we consider it as a secondary dominant to D Major (V/V in G), then C# should be C# (leading tone to D), E (mediant of C#), and G# (dominant of C#). The progression to D Major (D-F#-A) is indeed V of G. The F# in the D Major chord is the leading tone to G. The most conventional resolution for F# is to G. The question asks about the *most significant* voice-leading issue in the transition from the C# Major chord to the D Major chord, considering the subsequent resolution to G Major. The C# Major chord contains C#, E, G#. The D Major chord contains D, F#, A. The problematic movement is the C# to D. This is a chromatic step. While not inherently “wrong,” it’s a point of harmonic tension that requires careful handling. The E to F# is a diatonic semitone. The G# to A is a whole tone. The most jarring or unconventional movement, particularly in a context where smooth voice leading is paramount, is the chromatic ascent of the root of the C# chord to the root of the D chord. This is often seen as a less elegant solution than a diatonic or a more conventional chromatic movement. Therefore, the most significant voice-leading issue in the transition from C# Major to D Major, in preparation for a resolution to G Major, is the chromatic ascent of the C# to D. This is because C# is not functioning as a diatonic note within the key of G, and its movement to D creates a chromatic interval that can be perceived as less smooth than diatonic voice leading. The F# in the D chord correctly leads to G. The E in the C# chord moving to F# in the D chord is a semitone, which is acceptable. The G# in the C# chord moving to A in the D chord is a whole tone, also acceptable. The C# to D is the most harmonically disruptive interval. Final Answer is the chromatic ascent of C# to D. The question tests the understanding of voice leading principles within chromatic harmony, a core component of advanced music theory at Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it examines how chromatic alterations affect the smoothness and conventionality of melodic lines within a harmonic progression. The scenario presents a sequence of chords that moves from a tonic (G Major) to a chromatic mediant (C# Major), then to the dominant (D Major), and finally back to the tonic. While each chord individually might be analyzed, the transition between them, particularly the C# Major to D Major, presents a critical voice-leading challenge. In traditional Western tonal harmony, smooth voice leading often involves stepwise motion or common tones. The C# in the C# Major chord, when moving to the D in the D Major chord, creates a chromatic ascent. This chromatic movement, especially in an inner voice or bass, can be perceived as less fluid than diatonic stepwise motion. The other intervals in the transition (E to F# and G# to A) are either diatonic semitones or whole tones, which are generally considered more conventional. The F# in the D Major chord correctly functions as the leading tone to the tonic G, resolving upwards. The ambiguity of the C# Major chord’s function and its chromatic relationship to the subsequent D Major chord makes the C# to D movement the most significant point of consideration for a student aiming for mastery in compositional techniques taught at Heisei College of Music. This type of analysis requires not just identifying chords but understanding their functional relationships and the resulting melodic implications for individual voices.
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Question 15 of 30
15. Question
A student at Heisei College of Music is tasked with composing a short chorale harmonization that begins with a tonic chord in root position and moves to a dominant chord. The primary objective is to maintain smooth voice leading and avoid parallel perfect intervals between any two adjacent voices, while also ensuring each voice has a distinct melodic contour. Which of the following progressions, when realized with appropriate voice leading, best exemplifies these principles within a typical major key context?
Correct
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of counterpoint and harmonic progression as applied in the Western classical tradition, a cornerstone of study at Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it probes the student’s ability to identify a chord progression that adheres to the rules of voice leading and harmonic function while also exhibiting a degree of melodic independence between voices, characteristic of species counterpoint. Consider a progression from a tonic chord (I) to a dominant chord (V) in a major key. A common and harmonically sound movement is I to V. Within this framework, we need to ensure smooth voice leading and avoid parallel fifths or octaves, which are generally proscribed in strict counterpoint. Let’s analyze a potential progression: Starting with a C major chord (I) in root position: C-E-G. Moving to a G major chord (V): G-B-D. To achieve melodic independence and avoid forbidden parallels, consider the following voice leading: * **Bass:** C -> G (a perfect fifth, acceptable) * **Tenor:** E -> D (a major second, acceptable) * **Alto:** G -> B (a major third, acceptable) * **Soprano:** C -> G (a perfect fifth, acceptable) In this scenario, the movement from C major to G major, with the specific voice leading described, results in a progression that is harmonically logical and respects contrapuntal rules. The melodic contours of each voice are distinct, and no forbidden parallels occur. This type of analysis is fundamental to understanding compositional techniques taught at Heisei College of Music, where a deep appreciation for the historical development of harmony and counterpoint is cultivated. The ability to recognize and construct such progressions demonstrates a grasp of foundational musical grammar essential for advanced theoretical and compositional studies. The progression I-V is a fundamental building block, and its correct execution in a contrapuntal context is a key indicator of a student’s readiness for the rigorous curriculum at Heisei College of Music.
Incorrect
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of counterpoint and harmonic progression as applied in the Western classical tradition, a cornerstone of study at Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it probes the student’s ability to identify a chord progression that adheres to the rules of voice leading and harmonic function while also exhibiting a degree of melodic independence between voices, characteristic of species counterpoint. Consider a progression from a tonic chord (I) to a dominant chord (V) in a major key. A common and harmonically sound movement is I to V. Within this framework, we need to ensure smooth voice leading and avoid parallel fifths or octaves, which are generally proscribed in strict counterpoint. Let’s analyze a potential progression: Starting with a C major chord (I) in root position: C-E-G. Moving to a G major chord (V): G-B-D. To achieve melodic independence and avoid forbidden parallels, consider the following voice leading: * **Bass:** C -> G (a perfect fifth, acceptable) * **Tenor:** E -> D (a major second, acceptable) * **Alto:** G -> B (a major third, acceptable) * **Soprano:** C -> G (a perfect fifth, acceptable) In this scenario, the movement from C major to G major, with the specific voice leading described, results in a progression that is harmonically logical and respects contrapuntal rules. The melodic contours of each voice are distinct, and no forbidden parallels occur. This type of analysis is fundamental to understanding compositional techniques taught at Heisei College of Music, where a deep appreciation for the historical development of harmony and counterpoint is cultivated. The ability to recognize and construct such progressions demonstrates a grasp of foundational musical grammar essential for advanced theoretical and compositional studies. The progression I-V is a fundamental building block, and its correct execution in a contrapuntal context is a key indicator of a student’s readiness for the rigorous curriculum at Heisei College of Music.
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Question 16 of 30
16. Question
Consider a composer at Heisei College of Music Entrance Exam University tasked with crafting a short melodic phrase that descends stepwise from the tonic note of a major scale down to the dominant. Which of the following harmonic approaches would best support this descending melodic contour by creating a sense of organic continuity and resolution, reflecting a foundational principle of Western tonal harmony often explored in Heisei College of Music’s composition curriculum?
Correct
The core concept here is understanding the relationship between harmonic progression and melodic contour in composition, specifically within the context of Western classical traditions often studied at institutions like Heisei College of Music. A descending melodic line, when harmonized with a series of chords that move in descending root motion (e.g., tonic to subdominant, or dominant to tonic in a descending sequence), creates a sense of natural resolution and a smooth, organic flow. This is often achieved through diatonic progressions. For instance, in C major, a descending melody might be harmonized with C major (I), F major (IV), G major (V), C major (I). If the melody notes are C, B, A, G, and the chords are C, G, Am, F, this creates a descending melodic line (C-B-A-G) supported by a progression that, while not strictly descending root motion throughout, still maintains a sense of groundedness and forward momentum. However, the question asks about a *descending* melodic line that is *supported by a progression that mirrors this descent*. A progression like I-VI-IV-V in root position (e.g., C-Am-F-G) has a descending root motion in the first two chords (C to A) and then an ascending motion (A to F, F to G). A more direct mirroring of a descending melody would involve chords whose roots also descend. Consider a melody descending from G to F to E to D. This could be harmonized with G major (V), C major (I), F major (IV), Bb major (VII, in a modal context or as a secondary dominant), or even G major (V), D major (V/V), G major (V), C major (I). The key is the *descending root motion* of the harmonic progression itself, which reinforces the melodic descent. A progression like Am-G-F-E (vi-V-IV-III in C major, or i-VII-VI-V in A minor) clearly demonstrates this mirroring. The melodic descent is supported by chords whose roots are also descending. This creates a strong sense of continuity and inevitability, a hallmark of effective voice leading and harmonic planning in many compositional styles. The other options would either create a contrast between melodic and harmonic motion, or introduce more complex harmonic language that doesn’t directly mirror the simple melodic descent. For example, an ascending harmonic progression would create a push-and-pull effect, while chromaticism might add color but not necessarily reinforce the descending contour in the same direct manner. Therefore, a progression with descending root motion is the most direct and effective way to support a descending melodic line in a way that mirrors its contour.
Incorrect
The core concept here is understanding the relationship between harmonic progression and melodic contour in composition, specifically within the context of Western classical traditions often studied at institutions like Heisei College of Music. A descending melodic line, when harmonized with a series of chords that move in descending root motion (e.g., tonic to subdominant, or dominant to tonic in a descending sequence), creates a sense of natural resolution and a smooth, organic flow. This is often achieved through diatonic progressions. For instance, in C major, a descending melody might be harmonized with C major (I), F major (IV), G major (V), C major (I). If the melody notes are C, B, A, G, and the chords are C, G, Am, F, this creates a descending melodic line (C-B-A-G) supported by a progression that, while not strictly descending root motion throughout, still maintains a sense of groundedness and forward momentum. However, the question asks about a *descending* melodic line that is *supported by a progression that mirrors this descent*. A progression like I-VI-IV-V in root position (e.g., C-Am-F-G) has a descending root motion in the first two chords (C to A) and then an ascending motion (A to F, F to G). A more direct mirroring of a descending melody would involve chords whose roots also descend. Consider a melody descending from G to F to E to D. This could be harmonized with G major (V), C major (I), F major (IV), Bb major (VII, in a modal context or as a secondary dominant), or even G major (V), D major (V/V), G major (V), C major (I). The key is the *descending root motion* of the harmonic progression itself, which reinforces the melodic descent. A progression like Am-G-F-E (vi-V-IV-III in C major, or i-VII-VI-V in A minor) clearly demonstrates this mirroring. The melodic descent is supported by chords whose roots are also descending. This creates a strong sense of continuity and inevitability, a hallmark of effective voice leading and harmonic planning in many compositional styles. The other options would either create a contrast between melodic and harmonic motion, or introduce more complex harmonic language that doesn’t directly mirror the simple melodic descent. For example, an ascending harmonic progression would create a push-and-pull effect, while chromaticism might add color but not necessarily reinforce the descending contour in the same direct manner. Therefore, a progression with descending root motion is the most direct and effective way to support a descending melodic line in a way that mirrors its contour.
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Question 17 of 30
17. Question
During a composition seminar at Heisei College of Music, a student presents a short two-part invention. The first melodic line begins on middle C and ascends chromatically to F above middle C over four beats, with each note receiving a quarter note duration. The second melodic line commences on the F above middle C and descends chromatically to middle C over the same four beats, with each note also receiving a quarter note duration. What is the primary type of motion exhibited between these two melodic lines throughout their progression?
Correct
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of counterpoint and melodic construction within the context of Western classical music, a fundamental area of study at Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it probes the ability to identify and apply the concept of contrary motion in two melodic lines to create harmonic and textural interest. Consider two melodic lines, Melodia A and Melodia B. Melodia A ascends stepwise from C4 to G4 over four beats, with each note lasting a quarter note: C4, D4, E4, F4, G4. Melodia B, starting on G4, descends stepwise over the same four beats, also with quarter notes: G4, F4, E4, D4, C4. To determine the primary type of motion between these two lines, we examine the direction of movement of each melodic line relative to the other. Melodia A: C4 -> D4 -> E4 -> F4 -> G4 (Ascending) Melodia B: G4 -> F4 -> E4 -> D4 -> C4 (Descending) When one melodic line moves in an ascending direction while the other moves in a descending direction simultaneously, this is defined as contrary motion. In this specific scenario, Melodia A moves upwards (C4 to G4) while Melodia B moves downwards (G4 to C4). Therefore, the predominant motion between the two lines is contrary motion. This technique is crucial for creating independence between voices, avoiding harmonic monotony, and enriching the contrapuntal texture, all of which are emphasized in the theoretical curriculum at Heisei College of Music. Understanding and applying contrary motion is a hallmark of sophisticated compositional technique and a key skill for any aspiring musician at the institution.
Incorrect
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of counterpoint and melodic construction within the context of Western classical music, a fundamental area of study at Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it probes the ability to identify and apply the concept of contrary motion in two melodic lines to create harmonic and textural interest. Consider two melodic lines, Melodia A and Melodia B. Melodia A ascends stepwise from C4 to G4 over four beats, with each note lasting a quarter note: C4, D4, E4, F4, G4. Melodia B, starting on G4, descends stepwise over the same four beats, also with quarter notes: G4, F4, E4, D4, C4. To determine the primary type of motion between these two lines, we examine the direction of movement of each melodic line relative to the other. Melodia A: C4 -> D4 -> E4 -> F4 -> G4 (Ascending) Melodia B: G4 -> F4 -> E4 -> D4 -> C4 (Descending) When one melodic line moves in an ascending direction while the other moves in a descending direction simultaneously, this is defined as contrary motion. In this specific scenario, Melodia A moves upwards (C4 to G4) while Melodia B moves downwards (G4 to C4). Therefore, the predominant motion between the two lines is contrary motion. This technique is crucial for creating independence between voices, avoiding harmonic monotony, and enriching the contrapuntal texture, all of which are emphasized in the theoretical curriculum at Heisei College of Music. Understanding and applying contrary motion is a hallmark of sophisticated compositional technique and a key skill for any aspiring musician at the institution.
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Question 18 of 30
18. Question
Ren, a composition student at Heisei College of Music, is crafting a piece that utilizes a harmonic progression in C major: I-V6/IV-IV-ii-V-I. Considering the principles of tonal harmony and voice leading as emphasized in Heisei College of Music’s curriculum, what is the primary melodic and harmonic function of the V6/IV chord within this specific sequence?
Correct
The scenario describes a composer, Ren, working with a specific harmonic progression in a piece intended for the Heisei College of Music’s contemporary composition program. The progression is presented as I-V6/IV-IV-ii-V-I in C major. To analyze this, we first identify the Roman numerals and their inversions. I: C major chord (C-E-G) V6/IV: This indicates a secondary dominant chord. The Roman numeral IV in C major is F major (F-A-C). The V of F major is C major. The ‘6’ signifies a first inversion, meaning the third of the chord is in the bass. So, V6 of F major is a C major chord in first inversion (E-G-C). IV: F major chord (F-A-C) ii: D minor chord (D-F-A) V: G major chord (G-B-D) I: C major chord (C-E-G) The question asks about the primary melodic and harmonic function of the V6/IV chord within this progression. The V6/IV chord, which is C major in first inversion (E-G-C), functions as the dominant of the subdominant chord (IV). In the key of C major, the subdominant is F major. The dominant of F major is C major. The ‘6’ indicates that the E is in the bass. This chord (C major in first inversion) strongly leads to the F major chord (IV). The E in the bass of the V6/IV chord creates a leading tone relationship to the F in the F major chord. Furthermore, the C major chord itself (as the dominant of F) contains the notes G and C, which are common tones with the F major chord (F-A-C) and contribute to a smooth harmonic transition. The specific inversion (first inversion) places the third of the dominant chord (E) in the bass, which often creates a smoother voice leading to the root or third of the subsequent chord compared to a root position dominant. This particular harmonic device is a common technique in tonal music to add color and drive towards the subdominant, a concept explored in advanced harmony and counterpoint studies at Heisei College of Music. Understanding these secondary dominants and their inversions is crucial for analyzing and composing within various stylistic frameworks taught at the university.
Incorrect
The scenario describes a composer, Ren, working with a specific harmonic progression in a piece intended for the Heisei College of Music’s contemporary composition program. The progression is presented as I-V6/IV-IV-ii-V-I in C major. To analyze this, we first identify the Roman numerals and their inversions. I: C major chord (C-E-G) V6/IV: This indicates a secondary dominant chord. The Roman numeral IV in C major is F major (F-A-C). The V of F major is C major. The ‘6’ signifies a first inversion, meaning the third of the chord is in the bass. So, V6 of F major is a C major chord in first inversion (E-G-C). IV: F major chord (F-A-C) ii: D minor chord (D-F-A) V: G major chord (G-B-D) I: C major chord (C-E-G) The question asks about the primary melodic and harmonic function of the V6/IV chord within this progression. The V6/IV chord, which is C major in first inversion (E-G-C), functions as the dominant of the subdominant chord (IV). In the key of C major, the subdominant is F major. The dominant of F major is C major. The ‘6’ indicates that the E is in the bass. This chord (C major in first inversion) strongly leads to the F major chord (IV). The E in the bass of the V6/IV chord creates a leading tone relationship to the F in the F major chord. Furthermore, the C major chord itself (as the dominant of F) contains the notes G and C, which are common tones with the F major chord (F-A-C) and contribute to a smooth harmonic transition. The specific inversion (first inversion) places the third of the dominant chord (E) in the bass, which often creates a smoother voice leading to the root or third of the subsequent chord compared to a root position dominant. This particular harmonic device is a common technique in tonal music to add color and drive towards the subdominant, a concept explored in advanced harmony and counterpoint studies at Heisei College of Music. Understanding these secondary dominants and their inversions is crucial for analyzing and composing within various stylistic frameworks taught at the university.
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Question 19 of 30
19. Question
A composition student at Heisei College of Music is tasked with creating a two-part invention. They have been provided with a bass line consisting of the root notes \(C\), \(G\), \(A\), and \(F\), each sustained for one measure, implying root position chords of C major, G major, A minor, and F major respectively. The student must devise a melodic upper voice that adheres to the strictures of species counterpoint, ensuring consonant intervals on the downbeats and appropriate handling of dissonances. Which of the following melodic phrases, when placed in the upper voice, best exemplifies the principles of Baroque-era counterpoint and harmonic progression suitable for advanced study at Heisei College of Music?
Correct
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of counterpoint and harmonic progression as applied in Baroque-era composition, a cornerstone of the Heisei College of Music’s curriculum. Specifically, it tests the ability to identify a melodic line that adheres to the rules of species counterpoint while also creating a plausible harmonic relationship with a given bass line. Consider a two-part composition where the upper voice (cantus firmus) is fixed, and a new melodic line (contrapuntus) is to be written above a given bass line. The goal is to create a musically coherent and stylistically appropriate texture. Given Bass Line: \(C – G – Am – F\) (in root position chords) We need to find a melodic line for the upper voice that, when combined with the bass, creates consonant intervals on strong beats and resolves dissonances correctly. Let’s analyze potential melodic fragments for the upper voice against each chord: 1. **Against \(C\) (C major):** The bass is \(C\). Possible upper voices for consonance are \(E\) (major third), \(G\) (perfect fifth), or \(C\) (octave). 2. **Against \(G\) (G major):** The bass is \(G\). Possible upper voices for consonance are \(B\) (major third), \(D\) (perfect fifth), or \(G\) (octave). 3. **Against \(Am\) (A minor):** The bass is \(A\). Possible upper voices for consonance are \(C\) (minor third), \(E\) (perfect fifth), or \(A\) (octave). 4. **Against \(F\) (F major):** The bass is \(F\). Possible upper voices for consonance are \(A\) (major third), \(C\) (perfect fifth), or \(F\) (octave). Now, let’s evaluate the options based on melodic contour, rhythmic placement of consonances, and avoidance of forbidden parallels (octaves and fifths between the two voices). Option A: \(E – D – C – A\) * \(C\) bass, \(E\) upper: Major third (consonant). * \(G\) bass, \(D\) upper: Perfect fifth (consonant). * \(Am\) bass, \(C\) upper: Minor third (consonant). * \(F\) bass, \(A\) upper: Major third (consonant). This sequence creates consonant intervals on each beat and exhibits a smooth melodic contour. It avoids parallel octaves and fifths with the bass line. The melodic movement is stepwise or by small leaps, characteristic of good counterpoint. Option B: \(G – B – E – C\) * \(C\) bass, \(G\) upper: Perfect fifth (consonant). * \(G\) bass, \(B\) upper: Major third (consonant). * \(Am\) bass, \(E\) upper: Perfect fifth (consonant). * \(F\) bass, \(C\) upper: Perfect fifth (consonant). While all intervals are consonant, the melodic contour \(G – B – E\) involves a larger leap and a less smooth progression than Option A. The final \(E-C\) against \(F\) bass is a minor third, which is consonant, but the overall melodic shape might be considered less idiomatic for a strict species counterpoint exercise. Option C: \(C – G – A – F\) * \(C\) bass, \(C\) upper: Octave (consonant). * \(G\) bass, \(G\) upper: Octave (consonant). * \(Am\) bass, \(A\) upper: Octave (consonant). * \(F\) bass, \(F\) upper: Octave (consonant). This option creates parallel octaves with the bass line on every beat. Parallel octaves are forbidden in species counterpoint as they essentially reduce the texture to a single melodic line. This is a fundamental error in contrapuntal writing. Option D: \(E – G – C – E\) * \(C\) bass, \(E\) upper: Major third (consonant). * \(G\) bass, \(G\) upper: Octave (consonant). * \(Am\) bass, \(C\) upper: Minor third (consonant). * \(F\) bass, \(E\) upper: Major sixth (consonant). This option is plausible. However, the melodic progression \(E – G – C\) creates a perfect fifth between \(G\) (upper voice) and \(G\) (bass) in the second beat, and then a minor third between \(C\) (upper voice) and \(A\) (bass) in the third beat. The progression \(G\) to \(C\) in the upper voice is a perfect fourth, which is acceptable. The issue arises if we consider the harmonic implications more deeply. The progression \(E-G\) in the upper voice against \(C-G\) in the bass creates a perfect fifth and then a perfect octave. The progression \(G-C\) in the upper voice against \(G-A\) in the bass creates a perfect fifth and then a minor third. The final \(C-E\) against \(A-F\) in the bass creates a minor third and then a major sixth. While not strictly forbidden, the melodic contour and harmonic implications of Option A are generally considered more refined and characteristic of advanced contrapuntal writing taught at Heisei College of Music. Specifically, the smooth stepwise motion and the resolution of the \(D\) in the second beat to \(C\) in the third beat in Option A provides a better melodic flow. Therefore, Option A represents the most stylistically appropriate and technically sound contrapuntal line according to the principles of species counterpoint and harmonic coherence expected in advanced music studies at Heisei College of Music.
Incorrect
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of counterpoint and harmonic progression as applied in Baroque-era composition, a cornerstone of the Heisei College of Music’s curriculum. Specifically, it tests the ability to identify a melodic line that adheres to the rules of species counterpoint while also creating a plausible harmonic relationship with a given bass line. Consider a two-part composition where the upper voice (cantus firmus) is fixed, and a new melodic line (contrapuntus) is to be written above a given bass line. The goal is to create a musically coherent and stylistically appropriate texture. Given Bass Line: \(C – G – Am – F\) (in root position chords) We need to find a melodic line for the upper voice that, when combined with the bass, creates consonant intervals on strong beats and resolves dissonances correctly. Let’s analyze potential melodic fragments for the upper voice against each chord: 1. **Against \(C\) (C major):** The bass is \(C\). Possible upper voices for consonance are \(E\) (major third), \(G\) (perfect fifth), or \(C\) (octave). 2. **Against \(G\) (G major):** The bass is \(G\). Possible upper voices for consonance are \(B\) (major third), \(D\) (perfect fifth), or \(G\) (octave). 3. **Against \(Am\) (A minor):** The bass is \(A\). Possible upper voices for consonance are \(C\) (minor third), \(E\) (perfect fifth), or \(A\) (octave). 4. **Against \(F\) (F major):** The bass is \(F\). Possible upper voices for consonance are \(A\) (major third), \(C\) (perfect fifth), or \(F\) (octave). Now, let’s evaluate the options based on melodic contour, rhythmic placement of consonances, and avoidance of forbidden parallels (octaves and fifths between the two voices). Option A: \(E – D – C – A\) * \(C\) bass, \(E\) upper: Major third (consonant). * \(G\) bass, \(D\) upper: Perfect fifth (consonant). * \(Am\) bass, \(C\) upper: Minor third (consonant). * \(F\) bass, \(A\) upper: Major third (consonant). This sequence creates consonant intervals on each beat and exhibits a smooth melodic contour. It avoids parallel octaves and fifths with the bass line. The melodic movement is stepwise or by small leaps, characteristic of good counterpoint. Option B: \(G – B – E – C\) * \(C\) bass, \(G\) upper: Perfect fifth (consonant). * \(G\) bass, \(B\) upper: Major third (consonant). * \(Am\) bass, \(E\) upper: Perfect fifth (consonant). * \(F\) bass, \(C\) upper: Perfect fifth (consonant). While all intervals are consonant, the melodic contour \(G – B – E\) involves a larger leap and a less smooth progression than Option A. The final \(E-C\) against \(F\) bass is a minor third, which is consonant, but the overall melodic shape might be considered less idiomatic for a strict species counterpoint exercise. Option C: \(C – G – A – F\) * \(C\) bass, \(C\) upper: Octave (consonant). * \(G\) bass, \(G\) upper: Octave (consonant). * \(Am\) bass, \(A\) upper: Octave (consonant). * \(F\) bass, \(F\) upper: Octave (consonant). This option creates parallel octaves with the bass line on every beat. Parallel octaves are forbidden in species counterpoint as they essentially reduce the texture to a single melodic line. This is a fundamental error in contrapuntal writing. Option D: \(E – G – C – E\) * \(C\) bass, \(E\) upper: Major third (consonant). * \(G\) bass, \(G\) upper: Octave (consonant). * \(Am\) bass, \(C\) upper: Minor third (consonant). * \(F\) bass, \(E\) upper: Major sixth (consonant). This option is plausible. However, the melodic progression \(E – G – C\) creates a perfect fifth between \(G\) (upper voice) and \(G\) (bass) in the second beat, and then a minor third between \(C\) (upper voice) and \(A\) (bass) in the third beat. The progression \(G\) to \(C\) in the upper voice is a perfect fourth, which is acceptable. The issue arises if we consider the harmonic implications more deeply. The progression \(E-G\) in the upper voice against \(C-G\) in the bass creates a perfect fifth and then a perfect octave. The progression \(G-C\) in the upper voice against \(G-A\) in the bass creates a perfect fifth and then a minor third. The final \(C-E\) against \(A-F\) in the bass creates a minor third and then a major sixth. While not strictly forbidden, the melodic contour and harmonic implications of Option A are generally considered more refined and characteristic of advanced contrapuntal writing taught at Heisei College of Music. Specifically, the smooth stepwise motion and the resolution of the \(D\) in the second beat to \(C\) in the third beat in Option A provides a better melodic flow. Therefore, Option A represents the most stylistically appropriate and technically sound contrapuntal line according to the principles of species counterpoint and harmonic coherence expected in advanced music studies at Heisei College of Music.
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Question 20 of 30
20. Question
During a rigorous counterpoint and harmony examination at Heisei College of Music, a student is presented with a four-part chorale harmonization task. The student must resolve a root-position dominant seventh chord in the key of C major to the tonic chord. The dominant seventh chord consists of the notes G, B, D, and F. Considering the established principles of voice leading and harmonic progression as taught within the Heisei College of Music curriculum, which of the following represents the most stylistically appropriate and harmonically sound resolution of this dominant seventh chord to a C major tonic chord, ensuring proper treatment of the leading tone and chordal seventh?
Correct
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of harmonic progression and voice leading within a contrapuntal context, specifically as applied to the stylistic conventions expected at Heisei College of Music. A dominant seventh chord (V7) in root position, when resolving to the tonic (I), typically moves to a root position tonic chord. The dominant seventh chord consists of the root, major third, perfect fifth, and minor seventh. For a G7 chord (V7 in C major), these notes are G, B, D, and F. The tonic chord (I) in C major is C, E, and G. When resolving V7 to I, the leading tone (the third of the V7 chord, which is B in G7) must resolve upwards to the tonic (C). The seventh of the V7 chord (F in G7) must resolve downwards by step to the third of the tonic chord (E in C major). The root of the V7 chord (G) typically moves to the tonic root (C), often by leap, or can remain as the dominant in the tonic chord if the chord is in inversion. The fifth of the V7 chord (D) typically moves down by step to the tonic root (C). Considering a standard four-part texture (soprano, alto, tenor, bass), the most common and stylistically appropriate resolution of G7 to C major would involve the leading tone (B) moving to C, the seventh (F) moving to E, and the root (G) moving to C. The fifth (D) would move to C. This results in a C major chord with a doubled root and no fifth. Let’s analyze the options based on this: If the V7 chord is G-B-D-F, and it resolves to C-E-G: – B must go to C. – F must go to E. – G can go to C or G. – D can go to C or E. Option A: The bass note of the V7 chord is G. If it resolves to a C major chord, the bass note will be C. The leading tone (B) in the V7 chord must resolve upwards to C. The seventh of the V7 chord (F) must resolve downwards by step to E. The fifth of the V7 chord (D) typically resolves downwards by step to C. Therefore, a common and correct resolution would be G (bass) to C, B to C, F to E, and D to C. This creates a C major chord with a doubled root and no fifth. This is a perfectly acceptable and common resolution in classical harmony. Option B: If the V7 chord is G-B-D-F and resolves to C-E-G, and the B resolves to E, this is incorrect as B is the leading tone and must resolve to C. Option C: If the V7 chord is G-B-D-F and resolves to C-E-G, and the F resolves to G, this is incorrect as F is the seventh and must resolve down by step to E. Option D: If the V7 chord is G-B-D-F and resolves to C-E-G, and the B resolves to G, this is incorrect as B is the leading tone and must resolve to C. Therefore, the correct resolution involves the leading tone resolving correctly and the seventh resolving correctly. The question asks about the *most stylistically appropriate* resolution in a four-part setting at Heisei College of Music, which emphasizes adherence to classical harmonic principles. The resolution of the leading tone (B to C) and the seventh (F to E) are paramount. The remaining notes (G and D) can then fill out the tonic chord. The most common and stylistically sound outcome is a C major chord with a doubled root and no fifth, achieved by resolving G to C, B to C, D to C, and F to E.
Incorrect
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of harmonic progression and voice leading within a contrapuntal context, specifically as applied to the stylistic conventions expected at Heisei College of Music. A dominant seventh chord (V7) in root position, when resolving to the tonic (I), typically moves to a root position tonic chord. The dominant seventh chord consists of the root, major third, perfect fifth, and minor seventh. For a G7 chord (V7 in C major), these notes are G, B, D, and F. The tonic chord (I) in C major is C, E, and G. When resolving V7 to I, the leading tone (the third of the V7 chord, which is B in G7) must resolve upwards to the tonic (C). The seventh of the V7 chord (F in G7) must resolve downwards by step to the third of the tonic chord (E in C major). The root of the V7 chord (G) typically moves to the tonic root (C), often by leap, or can remain as the dominant in the tonic chord if the chord is in inversion. The fifth of the V7 chord (D) typically moves down by step to the tonic root (C). Considering a standard four-part texture (soprano, alto, tenor, bass), the most common and stylistically appropriate resolution of G7 to C major would involve the leading tone (B) moving to C, the seventh (F) moving to E, and the root (G) moving to C. The fifth (D) would move to C. This results in a C major chord with a doubled root and no fifth. Let’s analyze the options based on this: If the V7 chord is G-B-D-F, and it resolves to C-E-G: – B must go to C. – F must go to E. – G can go to C or G. – D can go to C or E. Option A: The bass note of the V7 chord is G. If it resolves to a C major chord, the bass note will be C. The leading tone (B) in the V7 chord must resolve upwards to C. The seventh of the V7 chord (F) must resolve downwards by step to E. The fifth of the V7 chord (D) typically resolves downwards by step to C. Therefore, a common and correct resolution would be G (bass) to C, B to C, F to E, and D to C. This creates a C major chord with a doubled root and no fifth. This is a perfectly acceptable and common resolution in classical harmony. Option B: If the V7 chord is G-B-D-F and resolves to C-E-G, and the B resolves to E, this is incorrect as B is the leading tone and must resolve to C. Option C: If the V7 chord is G-B-D-F and resolves to C-E-G, and the F resolves to G, this is incorrect as F is the seventh and must resolve down by step to E. Option D: If the V7 chord is G-B-D-F and resolves to C-E-G, and the B resolves to G, this is incorrect as B is the leading tone and must resolve to C. Therefore, the correct resolution involves the leading tone resolving correctly and the seventh resolving correctly. The question asks about the *most stylistically appropriate* resolution in a four-part setting at Heisei College of Music, which emphasizes adherence to classical harmonic principles. The resolution of the leading tone (B to C) and the seventh (F to E) are paramount. The remaining notes (G and D) can then fill out the tonic chord. The most common and stylistically sound outcome is a C major chord with a doubled root and no fifth, achieved by resolving G to C, B to C, D to C, and F to E.
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Question 21 of 30
21. Question
Consider a scenario where a student composer at Heisei College of Music is tasked with harmonizing a melodic fragment in C minor, employing a diminished seventh chord on the leading tone of the dominant chord. If the dominant chord is G major (G-B-D) and the intended tonic resolution is C minor (C-Eb-G), what is the most stylistically congruent resolution for the diminished seventh chord built on the leading tone of the dominant (which is B)?
Correct
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of harmonic progression and voice leading within a contrapuntal context, specifically as applied to the stylistic conventions expected at Heisei College of Music. A diminished seventh chord, by its very nature, contains dissonant intervals that require careful resolution. In a four-part chorale texture, the leading tone of the key (in C major, this is B) typically resolves upwards to the tonic (C). The diminished seventh chord built on the leading tone of a minor key (e.g., B diminished seventh in C minor) is a common and powerful harmonic device. If we consider a progression from a dominant seventh chord to a tonic chord in a minor key, say G7 to Cm, the B in the G7 chord is the leading tone of C minor. A diminished seventh chord built on this leading tone would be B diminished seventh (B-D-F-Ab). When resolving this B diminished seventh chord to a tonic chord, the B must resolve to C. The D in the B diminished seventh chord, being a minor third above B, often resolves down by a step to C or up to Eb. The F, a diminished fifth above B, typically resolves down to E. The Ab, a diminished seventh above B, is a particularly strong dissonant tone and usually resolves down by a semitone to G, the dominant of C minor. Therefore, the most stylistically appropriate resolution of a B diminished seventh chord to a Cm chord in a chorale setting, emphasizing proper voice leading and harmonic function, would involve the B moving to C, the D moving to Eb, the F moving to E, and the Ab moving to G. This creates a smooth and logical progression that respects the inherent tensions of the diminished seventh chord and its role in establishing the tonic. The resulting Cm chord would have the notes C, Eb, G, and C, with the voices moving as described.
Incorrect
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of harmonic progression and voice leading within a contrapuntal context, specifically as applied to the stylistic conventions expected at Heisei College of Music. A diminished seventh chord, by its very nature, contains dissonant intervals that require careful resolution. In a four-part chorale texture, the leading tone of the key (in C major, this is B) typically resolves upwards to the tonic (C). The diminished seventh chord built on the leading tone of a minor key (e.g., B diminished seventh in C minor) is a common and powerful harmonic device. If we consider a progression from a dominant seventh chord to a tonic chord in a minor key, say G7 to Cm, the B in the G7 chord is the leading tone of C minor. A diminished seventh chord built on this leading tone would be B diminished seventh (B-D-F-Ab). When resolving this B diminished seventh chord to a tonic chord, the B must resolve to C. The D in the B diminished seventh chord, being a minor third above B, often resolves down by a step to C or up to Eb. The F, a diminished fifth above B, typically resolves down to E. The Ab, a diminished seventh above B, is a particularly strong dissonant tone and usually resolves down by a semitone to G, the dominant of C minor. Therefore, the most stylistically appropriate resolution of a B diminished seventh chord to a Cm chord in a chorale setting, emphasizing proper voice leading and harmonic function, would involve the B moving to C, the D moving to Eb, the F moving to E, and the Ab moving to G. This creates a smooth and logical progression that respects the inherent tensions of the diminished seventh chord and its role in establishing the tonic. The resulting Cm chord would have the notes C, Eb, G, and C, with the voices moving as described.
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Question 22 of 30
22. Question
During a compositional analysis of a late Romantic era piece, a student at Heisei College of Music encounters a harmonic sequence that moves from a tonic chord in C major to a diminished triad, and then resolves to the dominant chord before returning to the tonic. The diminished triad in question is built on F-sharp. Considering the principles of chromaticism and functional harmony as emphasized in Heisei College of Music’s advanced theory curriculum, which of the following progressions most accurately represents this harmonic scenario and demonstrates a sophisticated use of chromatic alteration?
Correct
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of harmonic progression and voice leading within the context of Western classical music theory, as taught at institutions like Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it probes the student’s ability to identify a chord progression that deviates from standard functional harmony and explores chromaticism in a way that is both musically coherent and theoretically sound. Consider a progression in C major. The tonic chord is C major (I). The dominant chord is G major (V). A common secondary dominant is V/V, which is D major (II in G major, but functioning as the dominant of G). The progression I – V/V – V – I (C – D – G – C) is a fundamental example of functional harmony. Now, let’s introduce a chromatic alteration. If we consider the progression I – V/V – V – I, and we want to create a more sophisticated harmonic movement, we might alter the V/V chord. Instead of D major, we could use a D minor chord (ii in C major). However, the question asks for a progression that *challenges* standard functional expectations. Let’s analyze the provided options in relation to a common tonal center, say C major. Option (a): C – Dm – G – C. This is I – ii – V – I, a very standard progression. Option (b): C – D – G – C. This is I – V/V – V – I, also standard. Option (c): C – Ebdim – F – G. In C major, Ebdim is vii°/V. So, this is I – vii°/V – IV – V. This is a plausible progression, but the Ebdim chord is a standard secondary leading-tone chord. Option (d): C – F#dim – G – C. In C major, F#dim is vii°/ii. The ii chord in C major is Dm. So, vii°/ii would be A#dim (or B♭dim). F#dim is vii°/G# (or vii°/Ab), which is not directly related to a standard progression in C major without further context. However, if we consider F#dim as a diminished chord that leads to G, it functions as a chromatic passing chord or a substitute for a dominant preparation. A more common chromatic alteration leading to G would be a diminished chord built on the leading tone of G, which is F#, thus F#dim. This chord, F#dim, when resolving to G, creates a strong chromatic pull. The progression I – F#dim – V – I (C – F#dim – G – C) is a more advanced harmonic device. The F#dim chord (F#, A, C) contains notes that create dissonances and chromatic movement towards the G major chord. The F# is a semitone below G, the A is the third of F, and the C is the fifth of G. This specific chromaticism and the diminished quality of the chord create a tension that resolves to the dominant, showcasing a more nuanced understanding of chromatic voice leading and harmonic substitution that Heisei College of Music’s advanced theory curriculum would explore. The F#dim chord functions as a leading-tone chord to G, but it’s a diminished triad, not the typical dominant seventh or diminished seventh. This specific usage, particularly in a context where a more direct V/V might be expected, highlights a sophisticated approach to chromatic harmony. The calculation is conceptual, not numerical. The identification of F#dim as vii°/V in the key of G, which is the dominant of C, makes the progression C – F#dim – G – C a sophisticated chromatic movement. The F#dim chord (F#, A, C) creates a strong chromatic pull towards the G major chord (G, B, D). The F# is a semitone below G, the A is a minor third above F#, and the C is a tritone above F#. This diminished triad, functioning as a chromatic alteration leading to the dominant, demonstrates a deeper understanding of harmonic tension and resolution beyond basic functional harmony. This type of harmonic exploration is central to advanced music theory studies at Heisei College of Music.
Incorrect
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of harmonic progression and voice leading within the context of Western classical music theory, as taught at institutions like Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it probes the student’s ability to identify a chord progression that deviates from standard functional harmony and explores chromaticism in a way that is both musically coherent and theoretically sound. Consider a progression in C major. The tonic chord is C major (I). The dominant chord is G major (V). A common secondary dominant is V/V, which is D major (II in G major, but functioning as the dominant of G). The progression I – V/V – V – I (C – D – G – C) is a fundamental example of functional harmony. Now, let’s introduce a chromatic alteration. If we consider the progression I – V/V – V – I, and we want to create a more sophisticated harmonic movement, we might alter the V/V chord. Instead of D major, we could use a D minor chord (ii in C major). However, the question asks for a progression that *challenges* standard functional expectations. Let’s analyze the provided options in relation to a common tonal center, say C major. Option (a): C – Dm – G – C. This is I – ii – V – I, a very standard progression. Option (b): C – D – G – C. This is I – V/V – V – I, also standard. Option (c): C – Ebdim – F – G. In C major, Ebdim is vii°/V. So, this is I – vii°/V – IV – V. This is a plausible progression, but the Ebdim chord is a standard secondary leading-tone chord. Option (d): C – F#dim – G – C. In C major, F#dim is vii°/ii. The ii chord in C major is Dm. So, vii°/ii would be A#dim (or B♭dim). F#dim is vii°/G# (or vii°/Ab), which is not directly related to a standard progression in C major without further context. However, if we consider F#dim as a diminished chord that leads to G, it functions as a chromatic passing chord or a substitute for a dominant preparation. A more common chromatic alteration leading to G would be a diminished chord built on the leading tone of G, which is F#, thus F#dim. This chord, F#dim, when resolving to G, creates a strong chromatic pull. The progression I – F#dim – V – I (C – F#dim – G – C) is a more advanced harmonic device. The F#dim chord (F#, A, C) contains notes that create dissonances and chromatic movement towards the G major chord. The F# is a semitone below G, the A is the third of F, and the C is the fifth of G. This specific chromaticism and the diminished quality of the chord create a tension that resolves to the dominant, showcasing a more nuanced understanding of chromatic voice leading and harmonic substitution that Heisei College of Music’s advanced theory curriculum would explore. The F#dim chord functions as a leading-tone chord to G, but it’s a diminished triad, not the typical dominant seventh or diminished seventh. This specific usage, particularly in a context where a more direct V/V might be expected, highlights a sophisticated approach to chromatic harmony. The calculation is conceptual, not numerical. The identification of F#dim as vii°/V in the key of G, which is the dominant of C, makes the progression C – F#dim – G – C a sophisticated chromatic movement. The F#dim chord (F#, A, C) creates a strong chromatic pull towards the G major chord (G, B, D). The F# is a semitone below G, the A is a minor third above F#, and the C is a tritone above F#. This diminished triad, functioning as a chromatic alteration leading to the dominant, demonstrates a deeper understanding of harmonic tension and resolution beyond basic functional harmony. This type of harmonic exploration is central to advanced music theory studies at Heisei College of Music.
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Question 23 of 30
23. Question
In a pedagogical exercise at Heisei College of Music, a student is composing a two-part invention in the style of J.S. Bach. The first voice has just completed a phrase ending on G in C major. The second voice, which entered a beat later imitating the first voice at the octave, is currently on E. The first voice then moves to C. Which of the following melodic continuations for the second voice, from E, would best adhere to Baroque contrapuntal principles and harmonic expectations for a smooth transition, considering the first voice’s movement to C and then potentially to G?
Correct
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of counterpoint and harmonic progression as applied in Baroque-era composition, a cornerstone of the Heisei College of Music’s curriculum. Specifically, it probes the student’s ability to identify a harmonic resolution that respects voice-leading conventions and avoids parallel perfect intervals, while also maintaining a plausible melodic contour within the given contrapuntal texture. Consider a two-part invention in C major, where the first voice presents a melodic fragment. The second voice enters a beat later, imitating the first voice at the octave. The first voice continues with a new melodic idea. The task is to determine the correct harmonic realization of the second voice’s continuation, given a specific point where the first voice has just completed a phrase ending on G (the dominant). The second voice, in its imitation, is currently on the note E (the mediant). The first voice then moves to C (the tonic). The second voice needs to move from E to a note that creates a consonant interval with the first voice’s C, while also setting up a smooth progression towards the next harmonic event. If the first voice is on C, and the second voice is on E, a potential progression could involve the second voice moving to D. This creates a consonant interval of a sixth with the C. This D, being a step below the tonic, also functions as a leading tone to the dominant (G) in a subsequent cadence, or can resolve directly to C. This movement from E to D is a stepwise descent, which is melodically sound. Furthermore, if the first voice were to move to G next, the interval between C and G would be a perfect fifth, and then between the second voice’s D and the first voice’s G, it would be a perfect fourth, both consonant and acceptable. Let’s analyze other possibilities to confirm why this is the most appropriate. If the second voice moved to F, it would create a third with C, which is consonant. However, the melodic leap from E to F is a minor second, which is less characteristic of smooth melodic lines in this context compared to a stepwise descent. More importantly, if the first voice then moved to G, the interval between F and G would be a second, which is acceptable. However, the progression from E to F might lead to a less compelling harmonic sequence. If the second voice moved to B, it would create a dissonant interval of a seventh with C, requiring immediate resolution. While dissonances are part of counterpoint, the prompt implies a moment of harmonic stability or preparation for a clear progression. Moving from E to B is also a larger leap. If the second voice moved to G, it would create a perfect fifth with C. The melodic movement from E to G is a third, which is acceptable. However, if the first voice then moved to F, the interval between G and F would be a second. If the first voice moved to A, the interval between G and A would be a second. The E to G movement, while consonant, might not offer the same forward momentum or harmonic implication as the E to D movement, which strongly suggests a resolution to the tonic or a preparation for the dominant. The Heisei College of Music emphasizes the understanding of harmonic function and voice-leading principles that create a sense of direction and closure, which the E to D movement best facilitates in this scenario.
Incorrect
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of counterpoint and harmonic progression as applied in Baroque-era composition, a cornerstone of the Heisei College of Music’s curriculum. Specifically, it probes the student’s ability to identify a harmonic resolution that respects voice-leading conventions and avoids parallel perfect intervals, while also maintaining a plausible melodic contour within the given contrapuntal texture. Consider a two-part invention in C major, where the first voice presents a melodic fragment. The second voice enters a beat later, imitating the first voice at the octave. The first voice continues with a new melodic idea. The task is to determine the correct harmonic realization of the second voice’s continuation, given a specific point where the first voice has just completed a phrase ending on G (the dominant). The second voice, in its imitation, is currently on the note E (the mediant). The first voice then moves to C (the tonic). The second voice needs to move from E to a note that creates a consonant interval with the first voice’s C, while also setting up a smooth progression towards the next harmonic event. If the first voice is on C, and the second voice is on E, a potential progression could involve the second voice moving to D. This creates a consonant interval of a sixth with the C. This D, being a step below the tonic, also functions as a leading tone to the dominant (G) in a subsequent cadence, or can resolve directly to C. This movement from E to D is a stepwise descent, which is melodically sound. Furthermore, if the first voice were to move to G next, the interval between C and G would be a perfect fifth, and then between the second voice’s D and the first voice’s G, it would be a perfect fourth, both consonant and acceptable. Let’s analyze other possibilities to confirm why this is the most appropriate. If the second voice moved to F, it would create a third with C, which is consonant. However, the melodic leap from E to F is a minor second, which is less characteristic of smooth melodic lines in this context compared to a stepwise descent. More importantly, if the first voice then moved to G, the interval between F and G would be a second, which is acceptable. However, the progression from E to F might lead to a less compelling harmonic sequence. If the second voice moved to B, it would create a dissonant interval of a seventh with C, requiring immediate resolution. While dissonances are part of counterpoint, the prompt implies a moment of harmonic stability or preparation for a clear progression. Moving from E to B is also a larger leap. If the second voice moved to G, it would create a perfect fifth with C. The melodic movement from E to G is a third, which is acceptable. However, if the first voice then moved to F, the interval between G and F would be a second. If the first voice moved to A, the interval between G and A would be a second. The E to G movement, while consonant, might not offer the same forward momentum or harmonic implication as the E to D movement, which strongly suggests a resolution to the tonic or a preparation for the dominant. The Heisei College of Music emphasizes the understanding of harmonic function and voice-leading principles that create a sense of direction and closure, which the E to D movement best facilitates in this scenario.
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Question 24 of 30
24. Question
A composer at Heisei College of Music is tasked with harmonizing a melody in a chorale style, requiring the use of a secondary dominant to approach the dominant chord. Specifically, they are using the V7 of V in the key of C major. Which of the following descriptions accurately reflects the most stylistically appropriate resolution of this secondary dominant chord, considering fundamental principles of voice leading and harmonic progression expected in advanced music theory studies?
Correct
The question probes the understanding of secondary dominant resolution within the context of chorale harmonization, a fundamental skill emphasized in music theory curricula at institutions like Heisei College of Music. The scenario involves the secondary dominant chord V7/V, which in the key of C major is D7, resolving to the dominant chord V, which is G major. The D7 chord consists of the notes D, F#, A, and C. The G major triad consists of G, B, and D. The core principle of voice leading dictates that the leading tone of a chord must resolve upwards by step to the tonic of the subsequent chord. In D7, the leading tone is F#, which must resolve to G, the tonic of the G major chord. Similarly, the seventh of the dominant seventh chord must resolve downwards by step. In D7, the seventh is C, which must resolve to B, the mediant of the G major chord. Option A accurately describes this ideal resolution: the secondary dominant (D7) resolves to a G major triad in root position (G in the bass), with the leading tone (F#) ascending to the tonic (G), and the seventh (C) descending to the mediant (B). This specific voice leading pattern ensures smooth melodic lines in each voice and a strong, clear harmonic progression, which are hallmarks of stylistic correctness in chorale writing. For instance, if the D7 chord is voiced D-F#-A-C from bass to soprano, and it resolves to G major with G in the bass, a common and stylistically sound completion would be F# moving to G, A moving to B, and C moving to B. This results in a G major chord with G and B doubled, a perfectly acceptable voicing. This adherence to leading-tone and seventh resolution is a critical aspect of developing a refined harmonic ear and compositional technique, as fostered at Heisei College of Music.
Incorrect
The question probes the understanding of secondary dominant resolution within the context of chorale harmonization, a fundamental skill emphasized in music theory curricula at institutions like Heisei College of Music. The scenario involves the secondary dominant chord V7/V, which in the key of C major is D7, resolving to the dominant chord V, which is G major. The D7 chord consists of the notes D, F#, A, and C. The G major triad consists of G, B, and D. The core principle of voice leading dictates that the leading tone of a chord must resolve upwards by step to the tonic of the subsequent chord. In D7, the leading tone is F#, which must resolve to G, the tonic of the G major chord. Similarly, the seventh of the dominant seventh chord must resolve downwards by step. In D7, the seventh is C, which must resolve to B, the mediant of the G major chord. Option A accurately describes this ideal resolution: the secondary dominant (D7) resolves to a G major triad in root position (G in the bass), with the leading tone (F#) ascending to the tonic (G), and the seventh (C) descending to the mediant (B). This specific voice leading pattern ensures smooth melodic lines in each voice and a strong, clear harmonic progression, which are hallmarks of stylistic correctness in chorale writing. For instance, if the D7 chord is voiced D-F#-A-C from bass to soprano, and it resolves to G major with G in the bass, a common and stylistically sound completion would be F# moving to G, A moving to B, and C moving to B. This results in a G major chord with G and B doubled, a perfectly acceptable voicing. This adherence to leading-tone and seventh resolution is a critical aspect of developing a refined harmonic ear and compositional technique, as fostered at Heisei College of Music.
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Question 25 of 30
25. Question
When analyzing a chorale harmonization in C major for an advanced theory course at Heisei College of Music, a student encounters a progression where the bass moves from A to G, and the preceding chord is a secondary dominant in second inversion, specifically V6/V (D-F#-A). Which of the following resolutions of the secondary dominant chord to the dominant chord (G major) represents the most stylistically appropriate and harmonically sound voice leading in a traditional four-part texture, prioritizing smooth melodic contours and adherence to contrapuntal norms?
Correct
The question probes the understanding of harmonic analysis and voice leading within a specific contrapuntal context, relevant to advanced music theory curricula at institutions like Heisei College of Music. The scenario presents a progression that, while superficially appearing diatonic, contains subtle harmonic implications that require careful examination. Consider the progression in C major: I – V6/V – V – I. The first chord is C major (C-E-G). The second chord is a secondary dominant, V6/V, which is D major in second inversion (A-D-F#). This chord functions to lead to the dominant chord of C major, which is G major. The F# is the leading tone to G. The third chord is the dominant, G major (G-B-D). The final chord is the tonic, C major (C-E-G). The core of the question lies in identifying the most harmonically sound and stylistically appropriate resolution of the secondary dominant (V6/V) to the dominant (V) in a strict four-part texture, as would be emphasized in a Heisei College of Music context. The secondary dominant, D major with an F#, strongly implies a resolution to G major. The F# must resolve upwards to G. Let’s analyze the options for the resolution of V6/V (A-D-F#) to V (G-B-D) in four-part harmony, assuming the bass is moving from A to G. Option 1: Bass A, Tenor F#, Alto D, Soprano A resolves to Bass G, Tenor G, Alto B, Soprano D. In this resolution, the F# in the tenor moves to G, correctly resolving the leading tone. The A in the soprano moves to D, and the D in the alto moves to B. This creates a G major chord in first inversion (B-D-G). This is a valid resolution. Option 2: Bass A, Tenor F#, Alto D, Soprano C resolves to Bass G, Tenor G, Alto B, Soprano G. Here, the F# moves to G. The C in the soprano moves to G. The D in the alto moves to B. This creates a G major chord in root position (G-B-G-D). This is also a valid resolution. Option 3: Bass A, Tenor F#, Alto G, Soprano D resolves to Bass G, Tenor G, Alto D, Soprano B. In this case, the F# moves to G. The G in the alto moves to D, and the D in the soprano moves to B. This creates a G major chord in second inversion (D-G-B). This is a valid resolution. Option 4: Bass A, Tenor F#, Alto D, Soprano G resolves to Bass G, Tenor G, Alto D, Soprano B. Here, the F# moves to G. The G in the soprano moves to B, and the D in the alto moves to D. This creates a G major chord in root position (G-D-B-D). This is a valid resolution. However, the question asks for the *most* stylistically appropriate resolution in the context of advanced counterpoint, which often prioritizes smooth voice leading and avoidance of parallel perfect intervals. The secondary dominant V6/V (D-F#-A) strongly implies a resolution where the F# moves to G. The other notes of the V6/V chord (D and A) should also resolve appropriately to notes within the G major chord. Let’s re-examine the typical resolutions of V6/V to V. The F# must go to G. The D (in the secondary dominant) typically resolves to D or B in the dominant chord. The A (in the secondary dominant) typically resolves to G or D in the dominant chord. Consider the specific case of V6/V in root position (D-F#-A) resolving to V in root position (G-B-D). Bass: A -> G Tenor: F# -> G (correct leading tone resolution) Alto: D -> B Soprano: A -> D This results in G-B-D-G, a root position G major chord. This is a very common and stylistically sound resolution. Now let’s consider the options provided in the context of the question’s implied difficulty and focus on nuanced understanding of voice leading. The question is designed to test the understanding of how the *specific* inversion of the secondary dominant (V6/V) influences the voice leading. The V6/V chord is D-F#-A, with A in the bass. The F# is the leading tone to G. Let’s assume the progression is in C major, and we are resolving V6/V (D-F#-A) to V (G-B-D). If the bass moves from A to G, we need to voice the G major chord above it. Consider the resolution of the D major chord (D-F#-A) in second inversion (A in bass) to a G major chord (G-B-D). Bass: A -> G Tenor: F# -> G (leading tone resolution) Alto: D -> B Soprano: A -> D This yields G-B-D-G, a root position G major chord. This is a very standard and acceptable resolution. Let’s analyze the provided options again, assuming the question is asking for the *most* appropriate resolution of the secondary dominant chord itself, considering its specific intervallic structure and leading-tone function. The F# in the V6/V chord must resolve to G. The D in the V6/V chord can resolve to D or B. The A in the V6/V chord can resolve to G or D. The question is about the resolution of the *entire* secondary dominant chord to the dominant chord. The secondary dominant is D-F#-A. The dominant is G-B-D. Let’s assume the bass is moving from A (of V6/V) to G (of V). If the tenor has F#, it must go to G. If the alto has D, it could go to B or D. If the soprano has A, it could go to G or D. The most common and stylistically preferred resolution of V6/V to V, especially when the bass moves from the fifth of V6/V to the root of V, involves the leading tone (F#) resolving to the tonic of the dominant chord (G). The other voices should complete the dominant chord smoothly. Let’s consider the specific voicing of the V6/V chord (D-F#-A) with A in the bass. A common voicing would be A (bass), D (tenor), F# (alto), A (soprano). Resolving this to G major (G-B-D): Bass: A -> G Tenor: D -> B Alto: F# -> G Soprano: A -> D This results in G-B-G-D, a root position G major chord. This is a very strong resolution. Now let’s consider the scenario where the V6/V chord is voiced A (bass), D (alto), F# (tenor), A (soprano). Bass: A -> G Alto: D -> B Tenor: F# -> G Soprano: A -> D This also results in G-B-G-D. The question is designed to test the understanding of the most conventional and harmonically sound resolution of the secondary dominant’s specific intervallic structure to the dominant chord. The F# must resolve to G. The D in the secondary dominant can resolve to D or B. The A in the secondary dominant can resolve to G or D. The most common and stylistically appropriate resolution of the V6/V chord (D-F#-A) to the V chord (G-B-D), when the bass moves from A to G, is to have the F# resolve to G, the D resolve to B, and the A resolve to D. This creates a complete G major chord in root position. Therefore, the resolution where the F# moves to G, the D moves to B, and the A moves to D is the most harmonically sound and stylistically appropriate. Let’s assume the original voicing of V6/V was A (bass), D (tenor), F# (alto), A (soprano). Resolution: A (bass) -> G, D (tenor) -> B, F# (alto) -> G, A (soprano) -> D. This results in G-B-G-D. Let’s assume the original voicing of V6/V was A (bass), F# (tenor), D (alto), A (soprano). Resolution: A (bass) -> G, F# (tenor) -> G, D (alto) -> B, A (soprano) -> D. This results in G-G-B-D. The question asks for the *most* appropriate resolution. The key is the resolution of the F# to G. The other voices should move smoothly to complete the G major chord. The resolution of the D to B and the A to D is a very common and smooth way to complete the dominant chord. The correct answer is the option that reflects this smooth resolution of all voices, particularly the F# to G, and the other tones of the secondary dominant to appropriate tones in the dominant chord, avoiding parallel fifths or octaves and maintaining good melodic contour. The resolution where the F# moves to G, the D moves to B, and the A moves to D is the most standard and preferred. The calculation is conceptual, focusing on voice leading principles rather than numerical computation. The “exact final answer” refers to the identification of the correct voice leading pattern. The correct option is the one that shows the F# resolving to G, the D resolving to B, and the A resolving to D, completing the G major chord above the bass G. This maintains smooth melodic lines and avoids common contrapuntal errors. This is a fundamental concept in tonal harmony and counterpoint, crucial for students at Heisei College of Music to master for sophisticated compositional and analytical work. Understanding these resolutions is key to appreciating the functional progression of harmony and the art of voice leading, which are central to the college’s rigorous music theory program. The ability to identify and execute such resolutions demonstrates a deep understanding of the underlying principles of Western tonal music.
Incorrect
The question probes the understanding of harmonic analysis and voice leading within a specific contrapuntal context, relevant to advanced music theory curricula at institutions like Heisei College of Music. The scenario presents a progression that, while superficially appearing diatonic, contains subtle harmonic implications that require careful examination. Consider the progression in C major: I – V6/V – V – I. The first chord is C major (C-E-G). The second chord is a secondary dominant, V6/V, which is D major in second inversion (A-D-F#). This chord functions to lead to the dominant chord of C major, which is G major. The F# is the leading tone to G. The third chord is the dominant, G major (G-B-D). The final chord is the tonic, C major (C-E-G). The core of the question lies in identifying the most harmonically sound and stylistically appropriate resolution of the secondary dominant (V6/V) to the dominant (V) in a strict four-part texture, as would be emphasized in a Heisei College of Music context. The secondary dominant, D major with an F#, strongly implies a resolution to G major. The F# must resolve upwards to G. Let’s analyze the options for the resolution of V6/V (A-D-F#) to V (G-B-D) in four-part harmony, assuming the bass is moving from A to G. Option 1: Bass A, Tenor F#, Alto D, Soprano A resolves to Bass G, Tenor G, Alto B, Soprano D. In this resolution, the F# in the tenor moves to G, correctly resolving the leading tone. The A in the soprano moves to D, and the D in the alto moves to B. This creates a G major chord in first inversion (B-D-G). This is a valid resolution. Option 2: Bass A, Tenor F#, Alto D, Soprano C resolves to Bass G, Tenor G, Alto B, Soprano G. Here, the F# moves to G. The C in the soprano moves to G. The D in the alto moves to B. This creates a G major chord in root position (G-B-G-D). This is also a valid resolution. Option 3: Bass A, Tenor F#, Alto G, Soprano D resolves to Bass G, Tenor G, Alto D, Soprano B. In this case, the F# moves to G. The G in the alto moves to D, and the D in the soprano moves to B. This creates a G major chord in second inversion (D-G-B). This is a valid resolution. Option 4: Bass A, Tenor F#, Alto D, Soprano G resolves to Bass G, Tenor G, Alto D, Soprano B. Here, the F# moves to G. The G in the soprano moves to B, and the D in the alto moves to D. This creates a G major chord in root position (G-D-B-D). This is a valid resolution. However, the question asks for the *most* stylistically appropriate resolution in the context of advanced counterpoint, which often prioritizes smooth voice leading and avoidance of parallel perfect intervals. The secondary dominant V6/V (D-F#-A) strongly implies a resolution where the F# moves to G. The other notes of the V6/V chord (D and A) should also resolve appropriately to notes within the G major chord. Let’s re-examine the typical resolutions of V6/V to V. The F# must go to G. The D (in the secondary dominant) typically resolves to D or B in the dominant chord. The A (in the secondary dominant) typically resolves to G or D in the dominant chord. Consider the specific case of V6/V in root position (D-F#-A) resolving to V in root position (G-B-D). Bass: A -> G Tenor: F# -> G (correct leading tone resolution) Alto: D -> B Soprano: A -> D This results in G-B-D-G, a root position G major chord. This is a very common and stylistically sound resolution. Now let’s consider the options provided in the context of the question’s implied difficulty and focus on nuanced understanding of voice leading. The question is designed to test the understanding of how the *specific* inversion of the secondary dominant (V6/V) influences the voice leading. The V6/V chord is D-F#-A, with A in the bass. The F# is the leading tone to G. Let’s assume the progression is in C major, and we are resolving V6/V (D-F#-A) to V (G-B-D). If the bass moves from A to G, we need to voice the G major chord above it. Consider the resolution of the D major chord (D-F#-A) in second inversion (A in bass) to a G major chord (G-B-D). Bass: A -> G Tenor: F# -> G (leading tone resolution) Alto: D -> B Soprano: A -> D This yields G-B-D-G, a root position G major chord. This is a very standard and acceptable resolution. Let’s analyze the provided options again, assuming the question is asking for the *most* appropriate resolution of the secondary dominant chord itself, considering its specific intervallic structure and leading-tone function. The F# in the V6/V chord must resolve to G. The D in the V6/V chord can resolve to D or B. The A in the V6/V chord can resolve to G or D. The question is about the resolution of the *entire* secondary dominant chord to the dominant chord. The secondary dominant is D-F#-A. The dominant is G-B-D. Let’s assume the bass is moving from A (of V6/V) to G (of V). If the tenor has F#, it must go to G. If the alto has D, it could go to B or D. If the soprano has A, it could go to G or D. The most common and stylistically preferred resolution of V6/V to V, especially when the bass moves from the fifth of V6/V to the root of V, involves the leading tone (F#) resolving to the tonic of the dominant chord (G). The other voices should complete the dominant chord smoothly. Let’s consider the specific voicing of the V6/V chord (D-F#-A) with A in the bass. A common voicing would be A (bass), D (tenor), F# (alto), A (soprano). Resolving this to G major (G-B-D): Bass: A -> G Tenor: D -> B Alto: F# -> G Soprano: A -> D This results in G-B-G-D, a root position G major chord. This is a very strong resolution. Now let’s consider the scenario where the V6/V chord is voiced A (bass), D (alto), F# (tenor), A (soprano). Bass: A -> G Alto: D -> B Tenor: F# -> G Soprano: A -> D This also results in G-B-G-D. The question is designed to test the understanding of the most conventional and harmonically sound resolution of the secondary dominant’s specific intervallic structure to the dominant chord. The F# must resolve to G. The D in the secondary dominant can resolve to D or B. The A in the secondary dominant can resolve to G or D. The most common and stylistically appropriate resolution of the V6/V chord (D-F#-A) to the V chord (G-B-D), when the bass moves from A to G, is to have the F# resolve to G, the D resolve to B, and the A resolve to D. This creates a complete G major chord in root position. Therefore, the resolution where the F# moves to G, the D moves to B, and the A moves to D is the most harmonically sound and stylistically appropriate. Let’s assume the original voicing of V6/V was A (bass), D (tenor), F# (alto), A (soprano). Resolution: A (bass) -> G, D (tenor) -> B, F# (alto) -> G, A (soprano) -> D. This results in G-B-G-D. Let’s assume the original voicing of V6/V was A (bass), F# (tenor), D (alto), A (soprano). Resolution: A (bass) -> G, F# (tenor) -> G, D (alto) -> B, A (soprano) -> D. This results in G-G-B-D. The question asks for the *most* appropriate resolution. The key is the resolution of the F# to G. The other voices should move smoothly to complete the G major chord. The resolution of the D to B and the A to D is a very common and smooth way to complete the dominant chord. The correct answer is the option that reflects this smooth resolution of all voices, particularly the F# to G, and the other tones of the secondary dominant to appropriate tones in the dominant chord, avoiding parallel fifths or octaves and maintaining good melodic contour. The resolution where the F# moves to G, the D moves to B, and the A moves to D is the most standard and preferred. The calculation is conceptual, focusing on voice leading principles rather than numerical computation. The “exact final answer” refers to the identification of the correct voice leading pattern. The correct option is the one that shows the F# resolving to G, the D resolving to B, and the A resolving to D, completing the G major chord above the bass G. This maintains smooth melodic lines and avoids common contrapuntal errors. This is a fundamental concept in tonal harmony and counterpoint, crucial for students at Heisei College of Music to master for sophisticated compositional and analytical work. Understanding these resolutions is key to appreciating the functional progression of harmony and the art of voice leading, which are central to the college’s rigorous music theory program. The ability to identify and execute such resolutions demonstrates a deep understanding of the underlying principles of Western tonal music.
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Question 26 of 30
26. Question
When analyzing a chorale harmonization exercise submitted by a prospective student for the Heisei College of Music’s undergraduate program, an instructor notes a particular instance where a \(V^7\) chord in root position is followed by a \(I\) chord. The instructor is evaluating the student’s grasp of fundamental voice-leading principles. Specifically, what is the most stylistically conventional and harmonically sound resolution for the *seventh* of the dominant seventh chord in such a progression within the common practice period repertoire that Heisei College of Music emphasizes?
Correct
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of harmonic progression and voice leading within a contrapuntal context, specifically as applied to the stylistic conventions often explored at Heisei College of Music. A dominant seventh chord in root position, when resolving to the tonic, typically moves to a tonic triad. The dominant seventh chord, \(V^7\), contains the root, major third, perfect fifth, and minor seventh above the root. In a typical resolution to the tonic triad (\(I\)), the leading tone (the third of the \(V^7\)) resolves upwards by a half step to the tonic. The seventh of the \(V^7\) chord (which is a minor seventh above the root, or a major second below the root) resolves downwards by step to the third of the tonic chord. The root of the \(V^7\) chord, being the dominant, often moves to the tonic root. Consider a \(V^7\) chord in C major: G-B-D-F. The tonic chord is C-E-G. – The leading tone B resolves to C. – The seventh F resolves to E. – The root G can resolve to C (in the bass) or remain as G (in an upper voice). The question asks about the *most common* and stylistically appropriate resolution for the *seventh* of the dominant seventh chord. In Western classical harmony, particularly in the common practice period studied at institutions like Heisei College of Music, the seventh of a dominant seventh chord is almost universally resolved downwards by step. This downward resolution is crucial for maintaining smooth voice leading and avoiding dissonances that would be considered awkward or uncharacteristic of the style. For example, in the resolution of \(G^7\) to \(C\) in C major, the \(F\) (the seventh) resolves to \(E\) (the third of the \(C\) chord). This downward step is a fundamental rule of voice leading taught in harmony and counterpoint courses. While there are exceptions and more complex resolutions in later musical periods or specific stylistic contexts, for a general entrance exam question testing foundational harmonic understanding, the downward step is the expected and most prevalent resolution.
Incorrect
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of harmonic progression and voice leading within a contrapuntal context, specifically as applied to the stylistic conventions often explored at Heisei College of Music. A dominant seventh chord in root position, when resolving to the tonic, typically moves to a tonic triad. The dominant seventh chord, \(V^7\), contains the root, major third, perfect fifth, and minor seventh above the root. In a typical resolution to the tonic triad (\(I\)), the leading tone (the third of the \(V^7\)) resolves upwards by a half step to the tonic. The seventh of the \(V^7\) chord (which is a minor seventh above the root, or a major second below the root) resolves downwards by step to the third of the tonic chord. The root of the \(V^7\) chord, being the dominant, often moves to the tonic root. Consider a \(V^7\) chord in C major: G-B-D-F. The tonic chord is C-E-G. – The leading tone B resolves to C. – The seventh F resolves to E. – The root G can resolve to C (in the bass) or remain as G (in an upper voice). The question asks about the *most common* and stylistically appropriate resolution for the *seventh* of the dominant seventh chord. In Western classical harmony, particularly in the common practice period studied at institutions like Heisei College of Music, the seventh of a dominant seventh chord is almost universally resolved downwards by step. This downward resolution is crucial for maintaining smooth voice leading and avoiding dissonances that would be considered awkward or uncharacteristic of the style. For example, in the resolution of \(G^7\) to \(C\) in C major, the \(F\) (the seventh) resolves to \(E\) (the third of the \(C\) chord). This downward step is a fundamental rule of voice leading taught in harmony and counterpoint courses. While there are exceptions and more complex resolutions in later musical periods or specific stylistic contexts, for a general entrance exam question testing foundational harmonic understanding, the downward step is the expected and most prevalent resolution.
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Question 27 of 30
27. Question
Within the advanced harmonic analysis curriculum at Heisei College of Music, consider a scenario where a composer is exploring the expressive potential of chromaticism in a cadential passage. If a dominant chord with an altered fifth (e.g., a G7 with a raised fifth, G-B-D#-F) is intended to resolve to a C major tonic, which of the following resolutions would best exemplify a sophisticated understanding of late Romantic harmonic practice, prioritizing smooth voice leading and harmonic color over strict diatonic resolution?
Correct
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of counterpoint and harmonic progression as applied in the late Romantic era, a period heavily studied at Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it probes the student’s ability to identify a harmonic resolution that adheres to established voice-leading rules while also reflecting the chromaticism characteristic of composers like Wagner or Strauss, who are often analyzed in Heisei’s curriculum. Consider a progression from a dominant seventh chord to a tonic chord. In a standard diatonic setting, the leading tone (the third of the dominant chord) resolves upwards by a half step to the tonic. The seventh of the dominant chord typically resolves downwards by step. However, in the context of advanced harmonic language, particularly the exploration of augmented sixth chords and secondary dominants, deviations and more complex resolutions occur. Let’s analyze a hypothetical progression: a G7 chord (G-B-D-F) resolving to C major (C-E-G). The leading tone is B, which resolves to C. The seventh is F, which resolves to E. This is a basic resolution. Now, consider a more complex scenario relevant to Heisei College of Music’s advanced studies. Imagine a progression involving a Neapolitan chord or an augmented sixth chord leading to the dominant, which then resolves to the tonic. For instance, a German augmented sixth chord (Ab-C-Eb-F#) resolving to a D7 chord (D-F#-A-C), which then resolves to G major (G-B-D). In this case, the F# in the augmented sixth chord leads to G in the D7, and the Ab leads to A. The D7’s F# (leading tone to G) resolves to G, and the C (seventh) resolves to B. The question asks for a resolution that is harmonically sound but avoids the most conventional diatonic movement, implying a chromatic or altered approach. The correct answer would demonstrate an understanding of how chromatic alterations can create tension and lead to satisfying, albeit less predictable, resolutions. For example, a dominant chord with an altered ninth or eleventh, or a deceptive cadence that still maintains harmonic integrity, would fit this description. Let’s consider the specific resolution of a dominant chord with a lowered ninth to the tonic. If we have an A7 chord (A-C#-E-G) resolving to D major (D-F#-A). A common alteration is to lower the ninth, making it Bb. So, A7b9 (A-C#-E-G-Bb). The resolution to D major would involve the Bb resolving to A, and the C# resolving to D. This is a plausible, slightly more chromatic resolution. However, the question is designed to test a deeper understanding of voice leading within a specific stylistic context often explored at Heisei College of Music, which emphasizes the evolution of harmonic practice. The most nuanced understanding would involve recognizing a resolution that, while not strictly diatonic, still respects fundamental principles of smooth voice leading and harmonic function, often employing chromatic passing tones or altered chords that resolve in a sophisticated manner. The correct option will showcase a resolution that might involve a leading tone resolving to a note other than the tonic through chromatic means, or a seventh resolving in a less common, but still acceptable, manner within late Romantic or early 20th-century harmonic language. The calculation is conceptual: identifying the correct resolution involves evaluating the voice leading of each note in the preceding chord to its corresponding note in the subsequent chord, ensuring smooth melodic lines and avoiding parallel fifths or octaves, while also considering the harmonic function and stylistic appropriateness. The correct answer will demonstrate a resolution that is harmonically rich and melodically elegant, reflecting the advanced harmonic vocabulary expected of Heisei College of Music students. For instance, a resolution where the leading tone of a secondary dominant resolves chromatically to the root of the tonic chord, or where a chordal tone moves by a semitone to create a richer harmonic texture, would be indicative of this understanding.
Incorrect
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of counterpoint and harmonic progression as applied in the late Romantic era, a period heavily studied at Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it probes the student’s ability to identify a harmonic resolution that adheres to established voice-leading rules while also reflecting the chromaticism characteristic of composers like Wagner or Strauss, who are often analyzed in Heisei’s curriculum. Consider a progression from a dominant seventh chord to a tonic chord. In a standard diatonic setting, the leading tone (the third of the dominant chord) resolves upwards by a half step to the tonic. The seventh of the dominant chord typically resolves downwards by step. However, in the context of advanced harmonic language, particularly the exploration of augmented sixth chords and secondary dominants, deviations and more complex resolutions occur. Let’s analyze a hypothetical progression: a G7 chord (G-B-D-F) resolving to C major (C-E-G). The leading tone is B, which resolves to C. The seventh is F, which resolves to E. This is a basic resolution. Now, consider a more complex scenario relevant to Heisei College of Music’s advanced studies. Imagine a progression involving a Neapolitan chord or an augmented sixth chord leading to the dominant, which then resolves to the tonic. For instance, a German augmented sixth chord (Ab-C-Eb-F#) resolving to a D7 chord (D-F#-A-C), which then resolves to G major (G-B-D). In this case, the F# in the augmented sixth chord leads to G in the D7, and the Ab leads to A. The D7’s F# (leading tone to G) resolves to G, and the C (seventh) resolves to B. The question asks for a resolution that is harmonically sound but avoids the most conventional diatonic movement, implying a chromatic or altered approach. The correct answer would demonstrate an understanding of how chromatic alterations can create tension and lead to satisfying, albeit less predictable, resolutions. For example, a dominant chord with an altered ninth or eleventh, or a deceptive cadence that still maintains harmonic integrity, would fit this description. Let’s consider the specific resolution of a dominant chord with a lowered ninth to the tonic. If we have an A7 chord (A-C#-E-G) resolving to D major (D-F#-A). A common alteration is to lower the ninth, making it Bb. So, A7b9 (A-C#-E-G-Bb). The resolution to D major would involve the Bb resolving to A, and the C# resolving to D. This is a plausible, slightly more chromatic resolution. However, the question is designed to test a deeper understanding of voice leading within a specific stylistic context often explored at Heisei College of Music, which emphasizes the evolution of harmonic practice. The most nuanced understanding would involve recognizing a resolution that, while not strictly diatonic, still respects fundamental principles of smooth voice leading and harmonic function, often employing chromatic passing tones or altered chords that resolve in a sophisticated manner. The correct option will showcase a resolution that might involve a leading tone resolving to a note other than the tonic through chromatic means, or a seventh resolving in a less common, but still acceptable, manner within late Romantic or early 20th-century harmonic language. The calculation is conceptual: identifying the correct resolution involves evaluating the voice leading of each note in the preceding chord to its corresponding note in the subsequent chord, ensuring smooth melodic lines and avoiding parallel fifths or octaves, while also considering the harmonic function and stylistic appropriateness. The correct answer will demonstrate a resolution that is harmonically rich and melodically elegant, reflecting the advanced harmonic vocabulary expected of Heisei College of Music students. For instance, a resolution where the leading tone of a secondary dominant resolves chromatically to the root of the tonic chord, or where a chordal tone moves by a semitone to create a richer harmonic texture, would be indicative of this understanding.
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Question 28 of 30
28. Question
Consider a scenario in a two-part invention study at Heisei College of Music, where the first voice has just completed a melodic phrase ending on a sustained note. The second voice, having imitated the initial motif at the octave, is now at a point where the first voice is moving from a leading tone to the tonic of the relative minor. Which of the following continuations for the second voice, maintaining contrapuntal integrity and harmonic support, would be most consistent with the principles of Baroque counterpoint as emphasized in Heisei College of Music’s curriculum?
Correct
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of counterpoint and harmonic progression as applied in Baroque-era composition, a cornerstone of the Heisei College of Music’s curriculum. Specifically, it probes the student’s ability to identify a harmonic resolution that respects voice-leading conventions and avoids parallel fifths or octaves, while also maintaining melodic integrity within each voice. Consider a two-part invention in C major, where the first voice presents a melodic fragment. The second voice enters a beat later, imitating the first voice at the octave. The first voice continues with a new melodic idea. The question asks to identify the correct harmonic progression and voice leading for the second voice’s continuation, given a specific point in the first voice’s development. Let’s assume the first voice has just played the notes C4, E4, G4, F4. The second voice, imitating at the octave, would have played C5, E5, G5, F5, entering one beat later. Now, suppose the first voice moves to D4, then B3. The second voice, to maintain harmonic coherence and proper counterpoint, must respond. If the first voice moves to D4, a common harmonic progression in C major would involve a G major chord (dominant). If the second voice is to follow the first voice’s melodic contour and harmonic function, and the first voice is on D4, the second voice, which is currently on B4 (following the imitation of G4), needs to resolve appropriately. A common resolution from a G major chord (implied by the D4 in the first voice) would lead to a C major chord. If the first voice moves to D4, and the implied harmony is G major, the second voice, currently on B4, could move to C5. If the first voice then moves to B3, implying a continuation of the C major chord or a related chord, the second voice could move to G4. This creates a progression in the second voice of B4 -> C5 -> G4. This sequence respects the melodic contour (descending) and avoids forbidden parallels with the first voice’s D4 -> B3 movement. The implied harmony progression for the pair of voices would be something like G major (implied by D4 in voice 1 and B4 in voice 2) resolving to C major (implied by B3 in voice 1 and C5 in voice 2), and then potentially moving towards F major (implied by the subsequent notes). The key is to ensure smooth voice leading and adherence to contrapuntal rules. The correct option will demonstrate a resolution that avoids parallel perfect intervals and maintains melodic independence while supporting the harmonic progression. The specific notes chosen for the correct answer are derived from applying these principles to a hypothetical melodic and harmonic context typical of Baroque counterpoint studies at Heisei College of Music.
Incorrect
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of counterpoint and harmonic progression as applied in Baroque-era composition, a cornerstone of the Heisei College of Music’s curriculum. Specifically, it probes the student’s ability to identify a harmonic resolution that respects voice-leading conventions and avoids parallel fifths or octaves, while also maintaining melodic integrity within each voice. Consider a two-part invention in C major, where the first voice presents a melodic fragment. The second voice enters a beat later, imitating the first voice at the octave. The first voice continues with a new melodic idea. The question asks to identify the correct harmonic progression and voice leading for the second voice’s continuation, given a specific point in the first voice’s development. Let’s assume the first voice has just played the notes C4, E4, G4, F4. The second voice, imitating at the octave, would have played C5, E5, G5, F5, entering one beat later. Now, suppose the first voice moves to D4, then B3. The second voice, to maintain harmonic coherence and proper counterpoint, must respond. If the first voice moves to D4, a common harmonic progression in C major would involve a G major chord (dominant). If the second voice is to follow the first voice’s melodic contour and harmonic function, and the first voice is on D4, the second voice, which is currently on B4 (following the imitation of G4), needs to resolve appropriately. A common resolution from a G major chord (implied by the D4 in the first voice) would lead to a C major chord. If the first voice moves to D4, and the implied harmony is G major, the second voice, currently on B4, could move to C5. If the first voice then moves to B3, implying a continuation of the C major chord or a related chord, the second voice could move to G4. This creates a progression in the second voice of B4 -> C5 -> G4. This sequence respects the melodic contour (descending) and avoids forbidden parallels with the first voice’s D4 -> B3 movement. The implied harmony progression for the pair of voices would be something like G major (implied by D4 in voice 1 and B4 in voice 2) resolving to C major (implied by B3 in voice 1 and C5 in voice 2), and then potentially moving towards F major (implied by the subsequent notes). The key is to ensure smooth voice leading and adherence to contrapuntal rules. The correct option will demonstrate a resolution that avoids parallel perfect intervals and maintains melodic independence while supporting the harmonic progression. The specific notes chosen for the correct answer are derived from applying these principles to a hypothetical melodic and harmonic context typical of Baroque counterpoint studies at Heisei College of Music.
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Question 29 of 30
29. Question
In the context of developing foundational compositional skills at Heisei College of Music, a student is tasked with writing a second melodic line in three-part harmony against a given bass line. The bass line consists of the notes C, G, A, F, played sequentially. The student must choose an upper voice melody that creates the most harmonically rich and melodically fluid progression, strictly adhering to the rules of species counterpoint, particularly regarding consonant intervals and avoidance of forbidden dissonances. Which of the following upper voice melodic sequences, when paired with the bass line C-G-A-F, best exemplifies these principles?
Correct
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of counterpoint and harmonic progression as taught at institutions like Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it tests the ability to identify a progression that adheres to the strict rules of species counterpoint, particularly in the context of a two-voice composition, while also demonstrating a sophisticated harmonic understanding. Consider a scenario where a composer is writing a second voice against a given cantus firmus in the bass voice. The cantus firmus is in C major. The composer aims for a smooth, consonant melodic line that complements the bass without creating forbidden intervals or awkward leaps. Let’s analyze the options based on common counterpoint rules: * **Option A:** If the cantus firmus has a C in the bass, and the upper voice has an E, this forms a consonant interval of a third. If the bass then moves to G, and the upper voice moves to B, this forms a third. If the bass moves to A, and the upper voice moves to C, this forms a third. If the bass then moves to F, and the upper voice moves to A, this forms a third. This sequence of thirds, while consonant, might lack melodic interest and could be considered too static or predictable in a more advanced context, but it doesn’t inherently violate strict species rules if approached correctly. However, the question asks for the *most* harmonically sophisticated and melodically engaging progression that still adheres to strict rules. * **Option B:** If the cantus firmus has C, then G, then F, then D. If the upper voice has E, then D, then E, then F. * C (bass) and E (upper) = 3rd (consonant) * G (bass) and D (upper) = 5th (consonant) * F (bass) and E (upper) = 2nd (dissonant, requires preparation and resolution) * D (bass) and F (upper) = 3rd (consonant) The progression from F (bass) to D (bass) with E (upper) to F (upper) creates a dissonant interval of a second (F-E) followed by a consonant interval of a third (D-F). The second would require careful handling, typically as a passing tone or suspension, and its resolution to the third would need to be considered. * **Option C:** If the cantus firmus has C, then G, then A, then F. If the upper voice has E, then B, then C, then D. * C (bass) and E (upper) = 3rd (consonant) * G (bass) and B (upper) = 3rd (consonant) * A (bass) and C (upper) = 3rd (consonant) * F (bass) and D (upper) = 6th (consonant) This progression creates a series of consonant intervals (thirds and a sixth) that are melodically smooth and harmonically rich. The movement from G to A in the bass, and B to C in the upper voice, creates a strong sense of harmonic movement without violating any strict counterpoint rules. The final F to D interval (a sixth) is also consonant and provides a pleasing resolution. This sequence demonstrates a more nuanced harmonic vocabulary within the constraints of species counterpoint, offering a better balance of melodic contour and harmonic progression than a simple series of thirds. * **Option D:** If the cantus firmus has C, then F, then G, then C. If the upper voice has G, then A, then B, then E. * C (bass) and G (upper) = 5th (consonant) * F (bass) and A (upper) = 3rd (consonant) * G (bass) and B (upper) = 3rd (consonant) * C (bass) and E (upper) = 3rd (consonant) This is also a valid consonant progression. However, compared to Option C, the melodic contour might be slightly less varied, and the harmonic progression, while correct, might not exhibit the same degree of sophistication in voice leading and harmonic implication as the sequence of thirds and a sixth in Option C. The movement from F to G in the bass and A to B in the upper voice is good, but the final C to E is a common resolution. Option C’s progression of intervals (3rd, 3rd, 3rd, 6th) offers a slightly more varied and potentially richer harmonic texture within the strict rules. Therefore, Option C represents the most harmonically sophisticated and melodically engaging progression that adheres to the fundamental principles of two-part species counterpoint, a foundational element in music theory education at Heisei College of Music. It showcases an understanding of consonant intervals and smooth voice leading, crucial for developing a strong compositional foundation.
Incorrect
The core of this question lies in understanding the principles of counterpoint and harmonic progression as taught at institutions like Heisei College of Music. Specifically, it tests the ability to identify a progression that adheres to the strict rules of species counterpoint, particularly in the context of a two-voice composition, while also demonstrating a sophisticated harmonic understanding. Consider a scenario where a composer is writing a second voice against a given cantus firmus in the bass voice. The cantus firmus is in C major. The composer aims for a smooth, consonant melodic line that complements the bass without creating forbidden intervals or awkward leaps. Let’s analyze the options based on common counterpoint rules: * **Option A:** If the cantus firmus has a C in the bass, and the upper voice has an E, this forms a consonant interval of a third. If the bass then moves to G, and the upper voice moves to B, this forms a third. If the bass moves to A, and the upper voice moves to C, this forms a third. If the bass then moves to F, and the upper voice moves to A, this forms a third. This sequence of thirds, while consonant, might lack melodic interest and could be considered too static or predictable in a more advanced context, but it doesn’t inherently violate strict species rules if approached correctly. However, the question asks for the *most* harmonically sophisticated and melodically engaging progression that still adheres to strict rules. * **Option B:** If the cantus firmus has C, then G, then F, then D. If the upper voice has E, then D, then E, then F. * C (bass) and E (upper) = 3rd (consonant) * G (bass) and D (upper) = 5th (consonant) * F (bass) and E (upper) = 2nd (dissonant, requires preparation and resolution) * D (bass) and F (upper) = 3rd (consonant) The progression from F (bass) to D (bass) with E (upper) to F (upper) creates a dissonant interval of a second (F-E) followed by a consonant interval of a third (D-F). The second would require careful handling, typically as a passing tone or suspension, and its resolution to the third would need to be considered. * **Option C:** If the cantus firmus has C, then G, then A, then F. If the upper voice has E, then B, then C, then D. * C (bass) and E (upper) = 3rd (consonant) * G (bass) and B (upper) = 3rd (consonant) * A (bass) and C (upper) = 3rd (consonant) * F (bass) and D (upper) = 6th (consonant) This progression creates a series of consonant intervals (thirds and a sixth) that are melodically smooth and harmonically rich. The movement from G to A in the bass, and B to C in the upper voice, creates a strong sense of harmonic movement without violating any strict counterpoint rules. The final F to D interval (a sixth) is also consonant and provides a pleasing resolution. This sequence demonstrates a more nuanced harmonic vocabulary within the constraints of species counterpoint, offering a better balance of melodic contour and harmonic progression than a simple series of thirds. * **Option D:** If the cantus firmus has C, then F, then G, then C. If the upper voice has G, then A, then B, then E. * C (bass) and G (upper) = 5th (consonant) * F (bass) and A (upper) = 3rd (consonant) * G (bass) and B (upper) = 3rd (consonant) * C (bass) and E (upper) = 3rd (consonant) This is also a valid consonant progression. However, compared to Option C, the melodic contour might be slightly less varied, and the harmonic progression, while correct, might not exhibit the same degree of sophistication in voice leading and harmonic implication as the sequence of thirds and a sixth in Option C. The movement from F to G in the bass and A to B in the upper voice is good, but the final C to E is a common resolution. Option C’s progression of intervals (3rd, 3rd, 3rd, 6th) offers a slightly more varied and potentially richer harmonic texture within the strict rules. Therefore, Option C represents the most harmonically sophisticated and melodically engaging progression that adheres to the fundamental principles of two-part species counterpoint, a foundational element in music theory education at Heisei College of Music. It showcases an understanding of consonant intervals and smooth voice leading, crucial for developing a strong compositional foundation.
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Question 30 of 30
30. Question
Consider a short, unaccompanied melodic fragment presented to an applicant for the Heisei College of Music Entrance Exam: a sequence of pitches E4, F4, G4, E4. Assuming a tonal center of C major, what is the most accurate description of the primary function of this melodic contour within a typical harmonic context expected at Heisei College of Music?
Correct
The question probes the understanding of harmonic analysis and voice leading within the context of a specific musical passage, reflecting the rigorous theoretical training expected at Heisei College of Music. The provided excerpt, a brief melodic phrase, necessitates identifying the underlying harmonic progression and evaluating the melodic contour’s relationship to it. Consider a short musical phrase in C major: E-F-G-E. The first note, E, can function as the third of a C major chord (I), or potentially a vi chord in G major. However, given the context of a typical entrance exam question for a music college, and without further harmonic information, we assume a diatonic progression in C major. The second note, F, is the fourth of C major, a dissonant tone that typically resolves downwards. The third note, G, is the fifth of C major, a stable tone. The final note, E, returns to the third of C major. Analyzing the melodic movement: E to F is a semitone step upwards. F to G is a whole tone step upwards. G to E is a major third downwards. The core of the question lies in evaluating the melodic line’s interaction with implied harmony. If we assume a simple I chord (C major) throughout this short phrase, the E is the third, F is a passing tone (or appoggiatura), G is the fifth, and E is the third again. The melodic line outlines the tonic chord with a chromatic or diatonic passing tone. However, a more nuanced analysis, considering potential harmonic shifts or more complex voice leading, is required for an advanced student. Let’s consider a slightly more sophisticated harmonic interpretation that might be expected at Heisei College of Music. If the phrase begins with a C major chord (I), the F could be part of a secondary dominant or a Neapolitan chord, but without further context, this is speculative. A more direct interpretation, focusing on diatonic function and common melodic devices, is more likely. Let’s re-evaluate the melodic contour in relation to a stable tonic. The movement from E up to G outlines the tonic chord’s third and fifth. The F, situated between E and G, functions as a neighbor tone or a passing tone. If we consider the progression as outlining a tonic chord (C-E-G), the melodic line E-F-G-E can be seen as a melodic embellishment of the tonic triad. The F, being a semitone above E and a whole tone below G, is a common melodic inflection. The question asks about the *primary* function of the melodic contour in relation to the implied harmonic center. The most fundamental interpretation, and one that aligns with the foundational principles taught at institutions like Heisei College of Music, is that the melodic line, despite its movement, ultimately reinforces the tonic sonority. The E-F-G segment creates a sense of melodic tension and release, with the F acting as a chromatic or diatonic neighbor to the E, and the G providing a stable point before returning to E. This type of melodic construction, particularly the stepwise ascent and descent around stable chord tones, is a hallmark of classical and romantic melodic writing, areas of significant study at Heisei College of Music. The phrase, in essence, elaborates on the tonic chord’s structure. The F, in this context, functions as a melodic embellishment that adds color and forward motion without fundamentally altering the underlying tonic harmony. Therefore, the most accurate description of its primary function is the melodic elaboration of the tonic triad.
Incorrect
The question probes the understanding of harmonic analysis and voice leading within the context of a specific musical passage, reflecting the rigorous theoretical training expected at Heisei College of Music. The provided excerpt, a brief melodic phrase, necessitates identifying the underlying harmonic progression and evaluating the melodic contour’s relationship to it. Consider a short musical phrase in C major: E-F-G-E. The first note, E, can function as the third of a C major chord (I), or potentially a vi chord in G major. However, given the context of a typical entrance exam question for a music college, and without further harmonic information, we assume a diatonic progression in C major. The second note, F, is the fourth of C major, a dissonant tone that typically resolves downwards. The third note, G, is the fifth of C major, a stable tone. The final note, E, returns to the third of C major. Analyzing the melodic movement: E to F is a semitone step upwards. F to G is a whole tone step upwards. G to E is a major third downwards. The core of the question lies in evaluating the melodic line’s interaction with implied harmony. If we assume a simple I chord (C major) throughout this short phrase, the E is the third, F is a passing tone (or appoggiatura), G is the fifth, and E is the third again. The melodic line outlines the tonic chord with a chromatic or diatonic passing tone. However, a more nuanced analysis, considering potential harmonic shifts or more complex voice leading, is required for an advanced student. Let’s consider a slightly more sophisticated harmonic interpretation that might be expected at Heisei College of Music. If the phrase begins with a C major chord (I), the F could be part of a secondary dominant or a Neapolitan chord, but without further context, this is speculative. A more direct interpretation, focusing on diatonic function and common melodic devices, is more likely. Let’s re-evaluate the melodic contour in relation to a stable tonic. The movement from E up to G outlines the tonic chord’s third and fifth. The F, situated between E and G, functions as a neighbor tone or a passing tone. If we consider the progression as outlining a tonic chord (C-E-G), the melodic line E-F-G-E can be seen as a melodic embellishment of the tonic triad. The F, being a semitone above E and a whole tone below G, is a common melodic inflection. The question asks about the *primary* function of the melodic contour in relation to the implied harmonic center. The most fundamental interpretation, and one that aligns with the foundational principles taught at institutions like Heisei College of Music, is that the melodic line, despite its movement, ultimately reinforces the tonic sonority. The E-F-G segment creates a sense of melodic tension and release, with the F acting as a chromatic or diatonic neighbor to the E, and the G providing a stable point before returning to E. This type of melodic construction, particularly the stepwise ascent and descent around stable chord tones, is a hallmark of classical and romantic melodic writing, areas of significant study at Heisei College of Music. The phrase, in essence, elaborates on the tonic chord’s structure. The F, in this context, functions as a melodic embellishment that adds color and forward motion without fundamentally altering the underlying tonic harmony. Therefore, the most accurate description of its primary function is the melodic elaboration of the tonic triad.