Question

Listen to this excerpt from Stravinsky's Rite of Spring, which was written in the early twentieth century. Keeping in mind the changes in rhythm, melody, harmony, and orchestration that occured during the early twentieth century, which of the following musical traits describe this piece and which do not?

1) Changes in rhythm
2) Changes in melody
3) Changes in harmony
4) Changes in orchestration
5) None of the above

Answer 1

Stravinsky's Rite of Spring exemplifies early twentieth-century changes in rhythm, melody, harmony, and orchestration, making all the first four options correct descriptions of the piece's musical traits.

Step-by-step explanation:

The music of Igor Stravinsky's Rite of Spring reflects the significant changes in musical traits characteristic of the early twentieth century. This piece exhibits:

1. Changes in rhythm: Stravinsky employs complex and shifting rhythmic patterns that deviate from the conventional steady meters of earlier periods.
2. Changes in melody: The melodies in Rite of Spring are often disjunct and angular, breaking away from the smooth, lyrical lines typical of Romantic music.
3. Changes in harmony: Stravinsky uses dissonant and non-traditional harmonies, moving away from the established tonal system.
4. Changes in orchestration: The innovative use of instruments and the expanded orchestra create new textures and colors in music.

Therefore, all of the listed characteristics describe Stravinsky's Rite of Spring, and option 5 'None of the above' does not apply.