Question

19 multiple choice 1 point
in baroque opera, the group of instruments that always accompanies a singer is called the ______.
concertato
basso continuo
greek chorus
prima prattica

20 multiple choice 1 point
a french overture ______.
uses the chorus to comment on what has just happened on stage
was only used in french-language operas
consists of a slow introduction followed by an imitative fast section
uses a singing style similar to speech

Explanation:

Identify the accompaniment in Baroque opera

The first visible question (numbered 19) asks for the group of instruments that always accompanies a singer in Baroque opera. In Baroque music, the foundational accompaniment is provided by the Basso Continuo, which typically consists of a chordal instrument (like a harpsichord or lute) and a bass-line instrument (like a cello or bassoon).

Analyze the options for Question 19

• concertato: A style featuring contrasting groups of voices or instruments.
• basso continuo: The continuous bass accompaniment characteristic of the Baroque period.
• Greek chorus: A group of performers in ancient Greek drama, not an instrumental accompaniment.
• prima prattica: The older style of Renaissance polyphony.

Therefore, the correct choice is basso continuo.

Identify the characteristics of a French overture

The second question (numbered 20) asks about the structure of a French overture. A French Overture is a musical form widely used in the Baroque era, particularly to open operas and suites.

Analyze the options for Question 20

• uses the chorus to comment on what has just happened on stage: This describes a dramatic function of a chorus, not an overture.
• was only used in French-language operas: Incorrect, as German composers like Bach and Handel frequently used this form.
• consists of a slow introduction followed by an imitative fast section: This is the classic definition of a French overture, which features a slow, majestic opening with dotted rhythms, followed by a fast, fugal/imitative section.
• uses a singing style similar to speech: This describes recitative.

Therefore, the correct choice is consists of a slow introduction followed by an imitative fast section.

Answer:

Question 19

• (A) concertato
• (B) basso continuo (Correct answer)
• (C) Greek chorus
• (D) prima prattica

Question 20

• (A) uses the chorus to comment on what has just happened on stage
• (B) was only used in French-language operas
• (C) consists of a slow introduction followed by an imitative fast section (Correct answer)
• (D) uses a singing style similar to speech