Percussion Ensemble: History, Instruments, and Performance

Question 1

Which of the following is NOT a type of percussion instrument?

Accepted Answer

Chordophone

Answer

Idiophone

Answer

Membranophone

Answer

Electrophone

Question 2

Which of the following techniques is most commonly used to play the snare drum?

Accepted Answer

Striking the drumhead with two sticks

Answer

Hitting the drum with the palm of the hand

Answer

Dragging a stick across the drumhead

Answer

Rubbing the drumhead with a mallet

Question 3

Which of the following is NOT classified as a percussion instrument based on the way it produces sound?

Accepted Answer

Chordophones

Answer

Idiophones

Answer

Membranophones

Answer

Aerophones

Question 4

In ensemble playing, which technique involves listening attentively to others' parts to coordinate your playing?

Accepted Answer

Active listening

Answer

Playing simultaneously

Answer

Ignoring the conductor

Answer

Adjusting tempo

Question 5

What is a defining characteristic of idiophones?

Accepted Answer

They are primarily made of metal or other hard materials.

Answer

Their sound comes from a vibrating membrane.

Answer

They need a bow to make sound.

Answer

Blowing air into them produces their sound.

Question 6

What characteristic sets idiophones apart from other percussion instruments?

Accepted Answer

Their sound production through the vibration of their own body

Answer

Their construction from natural materials like wood or animal skin

Answer

Their playing method involving striking, shaking, or scraping

Answer

Their diverse range of timbres, from bright to deep

Question 7

Which instrument is NOT typically found in a percussion ensemble?

Accepted Answer

Violin

Answer

Timpani

Answer

Xylophone

Answer

Cymbals

Question 8

Which of the following is NOT a category of percussion instruments based on how they produce sound?

Accepted Answer

String

Answer

Idiophones

Answer

Membranophones

Answer

Electrophones

Question 9

Which instrument does NOT belong to the percussion family according to the Hornbostel-Sachs classification system?

Accepted Answer

Violin

Answer

Congas

Answer

Cymbals

Answer

Tambourine

Question 10

Which technique is NOT commonly used in a percussion ensemble?

Accepted Answer

Drawing a bow across instruments

Answer

Striking instruments softly with mallets

Answer

Sweeping brushes across instruments

Answer

Striking instruments forcefully with sticks

Question 11

Which defining characteristic distinguishes idiophones from other percussion instrument families?

Accepted Answer

Idiophones generally lack a clear and consistent pitch.

Answer

Idiophones are constructed from a combination of different materials.

Answer

Idiophones exclusively produce sound using bows or reeds.

Answer

Idiophones are limited in their ability to produce a variety of sounds.

Question 12

Which instrument category is usually NOT found in a percussion ensemble?

Accepted Answer

Chordophones

Answer

Idiophones

Answer

Membranophones

Answer

Aerophones

Question 13

Which instrument is not typically found in a percussion ensemble?

Accepted Answer

Piano

Answer

Snare drum

Answer

Marimba

Answer

Timpani

Question 14

What is a defining characteristic of idiophones?

Accepted Answer

They resonate when struck.

Answer

They produce a sound with a specific pitch.

Answer

They are played using mallets or sticks.

Answer

They are commonly featured in classical music.

Question 15

Which instrument is not commonly found in a percussion ensemble?

Accepted Answer

Violin

Answer

Timpani

Answer

Vibraphone

Question 16

According to the Hornbostel-Sachs classification system, which of these is NOT a category of percussion instruments?

Accepted Answer

Chordophones

Answer

Idiophones

Answer

Membranophones

Answer

Electrophones

Question 17

Which instrument does NOT belong to the percussion family?

Accepted Answer

Piano

Answer

Drum

Answer

Cymbal

Answer

Tambourine

Question 18

In a percussion ensemble, which technique involves visually observing the conductor's cues to coordinate performances?

Accepted Answer

Following the conductor's visual cues

Answer

Listening to fellow players

Answer

Relying on a metronome

Answer

Counting aloud

Question 19

In percussion ensemble music, which dynamic marking indicates a sudden, forceful accent followed by a rapid decrease in volume?

Accepted Answer

Sforzando

Answer

Crescendo

Answer

Decrescendo

Answer

Forte

Question 20

Which historical factors significantly influenced the emergence of the percussion ensemble as a distinct musical group in the 20th century?

Accepted Answer

The rise of popular music genres like jazz and rock and roll, which highlighted percussion instruments

Accepted Answer

The creation of novel percussion instruments and playing techniques by composers like Edgard Varèse and Karlheinz Stockhausen

Answer

The invention of the drum machine

Question 21

In a percussion ensemble composition, which rhythmic pattern is a characteristic of polyrhythms?

Accepted Answer

Two independent rhythmic patterns played simultaneously, each with a different time signature.

Answer

A syncopated rhythm with strong accents on the offbeats

Answer

A constant tempo maintained throughout the piece

Answer

A sequence of eighth notes played evenly throughout

Question 22

In evaluating a percussion ensemble's performance, which factor is most important?

Accepted Answer

Technical skill, accuracy, and ensemble unity

Answer

Visual appearance and stage presence

Answer

Unique style and original compositions

Answer

Emotional impact on the audience

Question 23

In a percussion ensemble, which technique is used to gradually increase volume, creating a crescendo?

Accepted Answer

Crescendo

Answer

Diminuendo

Answer

Sustained Volume

Answer

Accented Notes

Question 24

Within a percussion ensemble, which instrument is primarily played by striking its bars with mallets to produce sound?

Accepted Answer

Marimba

Answer

Snare Drum

Answer

Conga

Question 25

Which technique in a percussion ensemble performance involves blending sounds or textures seamlessly, creating a gradual transition in the musical soundscape?

Accepted Answer

Glissando

Answer

Fermata

Answer

Crescendo

Answer

Staccato

Question 26

Which category of percussion instrument does a xylophone belong to?

Accepted Answer

Idiophone

Answer

Membranophone

Answer

Aerophone

Answer

Chordophone

Question 27

In a percussion ensemble, polyrhythms often involve which of the following rhythmic patterns?

Accepted Answer

Two or more different rhythms played simultaneously, creating a complex effect

Answer

The same rhythm repeated continuously without variation

Answer

A rhythm that gradually changes over time, creating a sense of flow

Answer

A rhythm played in a syncopated manner, with unexpected accents and off-beats

Question 28

In an ensemble performance, which technique is commonly used by musicians to maintain synchronization despite being physically separated across the stage?

Accepted Answer

Visual cues: Musicians use hand gestures or eye contact to communicate and coordinate with each other.

Answer

Isolation: Musicians focus solely on their individual parts without acknowledging the ensemble as a whole.

Answer

Verbal communication: Musicians communicate through spoken cues and instructions during the performance.

Answer

Memorization: Musicians rely solely on memorization and individual practice, disregarding visual cues.

Question 29

Which of the following is NOT a membranophone commonly found in a percussion ensemble?

Accepted Answer

Cymbals

Answer

Drums

Answer

Timpani

Answer

Tambourine

Question 30

What technique is used on the marimba to produce a bright sound?

Accepted Answer

Hard mallet

Answer

Soft mallet

Answer

Brushes

Answer

Hands

Question 31

Which instrument in a percussion ensemble is a membranophone? Membranophones are instruments that produce sound through the vibration of a stretched membrane.

Accepted Answer

Timpani

Answer

Cymbals

Answer

Vibraphone

Answer

Triangle

Question 32

Which technique in a percussion ensemble involves coordinating with other players by observing the conductor's arm movements and gestures?

Accepted Answer

Following

Answer

Isolating

Answer

Listening

Question 33

In a percussion ensemble performance, which articulation technique involves starting softly and gradually increasing the volume, creating a smooth crescendo effect?

Accepted Answer

Progressive increase in volume from soft to loud

Answer

Accented attack followed by a rapid decrease in volume

Answer

Sustained volume throughout the duration of the note

Answer

Abrupt change from loud to soft, followed by a gradual increase in volume

Question 34

In a percussion ensemble, what is the primary function of the conductor?

Accepted Answer

Provide visual cues for timing and interpretation

Answer

Choose the percussion instruments for each piece

Answer

Play the main percussion part

Answer

Compose the music for the ensemble

Question 35

In a percussion ensemble, which technique involves arranging instruments and performers on stage to enhance sound quality, blend, and visual appeal?

Accepted Answer

Staging

Answer

Articulation

Answer

Dynamics

Answer

Tempo

Question 36

What is a defining characteristic of percussion instruments?

Accepted Answer

They vibrate to produce sound

Answer

They are always played with mallets

Answer

They are only used in classical music

Answer

They are the only instruments that can be played rhythmically

Question 37

How has technology influenced the sonic landscape of contemporary percussion ensembles?

Accepted Answer

Technology has introduced new sounds and effects, expanding the ensemble's expressive capabilities.

Answer

Technology has replaced traditional acoustic instruments, eliminating their role in the ensemble.

Answer

Technology has made learning percussion easier, reducing the need for technical skill.

Question 38

How do dynamics contribute to musical expression and impact in a percussion ensemble performance?

Accepted Answer

Dynamics are used to create contrast in volume between different sections of the ensemble.

Accepted Answer

Dynamics are indicated in percussion music using symbols like accents, crescendos, and decrescendos.

Answer

Dynamics are not as important in percussion ensembles because the instruments are naturally loud.

Question 39

Which rehearsal technique is most effective for percussion ensembles, considering their specific needs and musical goals?

Accepted Answer

Combination of verbal instructions, visual aids, and tailored practice

Answer

Verbal instructions only

Answer

Individual practice only

Answer

Improvisation and experimentation without guidance

Question 40

Which instrument is not typically included in a Western percussion ensemble setup?

Accepted Answer

Clarinet

Answer

Xylophone

Answer

Snare drum

Answer

Marimba

Question 41

What is the primary technique employed when playing mallet percussion instruments like the xylophone or marimba?

Accepted Answer

Sticking

Answer

Bowing

Answer

Plucking

Answer

Blowing

Question 42

Which musical element is often emphasized in percussion ensemble compositions?

Accepted Answer

Rhythm

Answer

Melody

Answer

Harmony

Answer

Orchestration

Question 43

Which of the following is not considered an essential skill for effective ensemble performance?

Accepted Answer

Improvisation

Answer

Listening

Answer

Timekeeping

Answer

Coordination

Question 44

Approximately when did the modern percussion ensemble emerge as a distinct musical entity?

Accepted Answer

20th Century

Answer

Renaissance

Answer

Baroque

Answer

Romantic

Question 45

Which notable composer is recognized for their pioneering use of percussion instruments in orchestral works?

Accepted Answer

Stravinsky

Answer

Mozart

Answer

Beethoven

Answer

Wagner

Question 46

Which percussion instrument is predominantly used to create a delicate and shimmering sound?

Accepted Answer

Vibraphone

Answer

Timpani

Answer

Cymbals

Answer

Triangle

Question 47

What best describes the rhythmic structure of Steve Reich's 'Drumming'?

Accepted Answer

Complex polyrhythms, interlocking patterns, and shifting accents

Answer

Regular, predictable rhythms with occasional syncopations

Answer

A steady, unchanging groove throughout the piece

Answer

Simple, repetitive rhythms with little variation

Question 48

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of the percussion ensemble?

Accepted Answer

Focus on melodic development

Answer

Emphasis on rhythmic precision

Answer

Use of a diverse range of instruments

Answer

Collaboration between performers

Question 49

In which historical period did the modern percussion ensemble emerge?

Accepted Answer

20th Century

Answer

Renaissance

Answer

Classical

Answer

Romantic

Question 50

Which instrument is known for its distinctive, bright sound?

Accepted Answer

Xylophone

Answer

Marimba

Answer

Vibraphone

Answer

Celesta

Question 51

How does the choice of instruments in a percussion ensemble influence its sound, musical style, and expressive potential?

Accepted Answer

The instrumentation significantly impacts the overall sound, volume, and expressiveness of the piece.

Answer

The size of the ensemble is the primary determinant of the piece's sound.

Answer

All percussion instruments produce the same sound, regardless of their size or material.

Question 52

In a percussion ensemble, how does improvisation contribute to the performance?

Accepted Answer

Improvisation is central, allowing performers to express themselves spontaneously and collaborate creatively.

Answer

Improvisation is uncommon, with performances adhering to set compositions.

Answer

Improvisation relies solely on individual skill, with limited ensemble interaction.

Answer

Improvisation serves primarily to showcase technical prowess and individual virtuosity.

Question 53

Which of the following is NOT typically considered a percussion instrument found in an ensemble?

Accepted Answer

Piano

Answer

Snare drum

Answer

Marimba

Answer

Bongos

Question 54

The emergence of the percussion ensemble as a distinct musical entity primarily occurred during which historical period?

Accepted Answer

20th century

Answer

Renaissance

Answer

Baroque

Answer

Classical

Question 55

When composing for a percussion ensemble, what is the most important aspect to focus on?

Accepted Answer

Rhythmic precision

Answer

Melodic development

Answer

Harmonic complexity

Answer

Extended techniques

Question 56

Which of the following characteristics is NOT typically associated with a percussion ensemble?

Accepted Answer

Emphasizes melodic and harmonic development

Answer

Utilizes a diverse range of instruments

Answer

Prioritizes rhythmic complexity

Answer

Requires precision and coordinated ensemble performance

Question 57

Which technique involves playing multiple notes simultaneously on a single percussion instrument?

Accepted Answer

Multi-stick playing

Answer

Roll technique

Answer

Choked sounds

Answer

Flams

Question 58

What is the primary purpose of using dynamic shading within a percussion ensemble?

Accepted Answer

Creating contrast and shaping musical phrases

Answer

Producing a wider range of sounds

Answer

Highlighting individual instruments

Answer

Maintaining rhythmic accuracy

Question 59

Which of the following instruments is NOT commonly found in a percussion ensemble?

Accepted Answer

Clarinet

Answer

Bongo

Answer

Timpani

Answer

Snare drum

Question 60

What is the primary function of a conductor in a percussion ensemble?

Accepted Answer

Cueing and guiding the performers to ensure a cohesive and synchronized performance

Answer

Leading the melodic line

Answer

Tuning the instruments

Answer

Playing the bass drum

Question 61

Which historical period is associated with the surge in popularity and development of the percussion ensemble?

Accepted Answer

20th century

Answer

Baroque period

Answer

Medieval period

Answer

Romantic period

Question 62

What is a clave rhythm commonly used in percussion ensembles to establish a rhythmic foundation?

Accepted Answer

2-3 cross-rhythm

Answer

3/4 waltz

Answer

4/4 backbeat

Question 63

Which of the following is a fundamental aspect of effective ensemble performance in a percussion ensemble?

Accepted Answer

Precise timing and coordination among the performers to achieve rhythmic cohesion

Answer

Independent solo playing

Answer

Individual embellishments

Answer

Loud dynamics

Question 64

What is the purpose of using mutes in a percussion ensemble?

Accepted Answer

To alter the sound quality or volume of an instrument and create specific effects

Answer

To improve intonation

Answer

To create special effects only