Music Transcription Music Transcription Standard Notation and Dynamics Questions and Answers 2

Question 1

In standard notation, what does the dynamic marking 'sfz' instruct the performer to do?

Accepted Answer

Play with a sudden strong accent on a single note

Answer

Gradually get louder over several measures

Answer

Maintain a steady moderate volume

Answer

Gradually get softer then louder

Question 2

When transcribing a passage marked 'mp' followed by a hairpin crescendo to 'f', how many dynamic levels does the performer traverse?

Accepted Answer

Three levels: mp, mf, f

Answer

Two levels: mp, f

Answer

Four levels: mp, mf, f, ff

Answer

One level: mp to f is a single step

Question 3

Which notation symbol is used to indicate that a note should be held longer than its written value at the performer's discretion?

Accepted Answer

Fermata

Answer

Tenuto

Answer

Accent

Answer

Marcato

Question 4

In a transcription, what does the abbreviation 'fp' mean when placed beneath a note?

Accepted Answer

Play the note forte then immediately drop to piano

Answer

Play the note piano then immediately rise to forte

Answer

Play with fluctuating volume throughout the note

Answer

Play at a volume between forte and piano

Question 5

When transcribing orchestral music, which clef is most commonly used for the viola part in standard notation?

Accepted Answer

Alto clef

Answer

Treble clef

Answer

Bass clef

Answer

Tenor clef

Question 6

What does the term 'niente' indicate when written at the end of a decrescendo hairpin in a transcription?

Accepted Answer

Fade to complete silence

Answer

Return to the original dynamic level

Answer

Hold the final dynamic steady

Answer

Decrease to pianissimo only