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National Federation of Music Clubs - Festival Theory Test
Level 1 Practice Test 2020
1. Fill in the blanks with the missing letter to complete the musical alphabet from low to high.
B ___D E F G A ___ C D ___ D E F G E ___ G A B F G A B ___
A ___ C D E C D E ___ G D E ___ G A G A B___ D C D E ___G
2. Draw 1 HALF NOTE in each measure Draw 1 WHOLE NOTE in each measure
in different spaces. on different lines.
Write only one note in each measure!!
Draw 1 QUARTER NOTE in each measure Draw 1 HALF NOTE in each measure
in different spaces. on different lines.
3. Circle only the QUARTER notes.
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 1, p. 2
4. Circle only the HALF notes.
5. Circle only the WHOLE notes.
6. Circle ONLY the notes in SPACES.
7. Circle the HIGHEST note in each measure.
8. Circle the LOWEST note in each measure.
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 1, p. 3
9. Circle ONLY the notes on LINES.
10. Circle ONLY the measures with notes that SKIP up or down.
11. Circle ONLY the measures with notes that STEP up or down.
12. Write the letter in the space that matches the definition.
_____ bass clef
_____ play or sing softly
_____ treble clef
_____ play or sing loudly
_____ staff
A. B. f C.
D. p E.
National Federation of Music Clubs - Festival Theory Test
Level 2 Practice Test 2020
1. Choose a word from the box that identifies the note or rest. Write the number of beats each
receives in 4/4 time.
______________ gets _______beats
_______________ gets ________beats
______________ gets ________beats
______________ gets ________beat
______________ gets ________beats
2. Write the correct beats/counts under each note for counting the measures below. Note the 3/4 time signature.
3. Write the correct letter name for EACH note below.
____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____
____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____
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quarter rest
half rest
whole note
whole rest
dotted half note
NFMC Theory Test Level 2, page 2
4. A. Write the number of beats each note or rest receives in 4/4 time.
= ________ = ________ = _______ = ________
== ________ = ________ = _______
B. The name of this note, is a ______________ note.
The name of this note, is a ______________ _________ note.
The name of this rest, is a ______________ rest
5. Circle the measures with intervals of a SECOND.
6. Draw a FLAT on the staff in front of each note. (Be careful to draw flat on the correct line or space.)
7. Draw a SHARP on the staff in front of each note. (Be careful to draw sharp on the correct line or space.)
8. Write the correct beats/counts under each note for counting the measures below. Note the 4/4 time signature.
quarter
half
whole
dotted half
NFMC Theory Test Level 2, p 3
9. Circle the measures with intervals of a THIRD.
10. Match the musical signs with the definition by writing the letter in the space provided.
_____ tied notes _____ slur
_____ bar line _____ Grand staff
_____ repeat
A.
B.
_____ barline
_____ grand staff
_____ measure
_____ slur
_____ tie
C.
D.
E.
11. Add five whole notes to complete this C major scale.
A. B. C.
D.
E.
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National Federation of Music Clubs - Festival Theory Test
Level 3 Practice Test 2020
1. Identify the following intervals as either whole steps or half steps.
Use “W” for whole step or “H” for half step for each measure.
_________ ________ _________ ________ _________
_________ ________ _________ ________ _________
2. Choose a word from the box that completes the chart. Each symbol will have two answers from the box.
Name of symbol: It means:
________________ _______________
p ________________ ________________
f ________________ ________________
________________ ________________
rit. ________________ ________________
3. Write the letter name of the major key represented by these key signatures.
_________ ________ _______ _______ _______ ________ _______
crescendo
diminuendo
forte
piano
ritardando
**************
loud
soft
gradually louder
gradually softer
gradually slower
NFMC Theory Test Level 3, p 2
4. Draw a TREBLE CLEF on the staff, then write Draw a BASS CLEF on the staff, then write
HALF NOTES over EACH of the letter names. QUARTER NOTES over EACH of the letter names.
Stems must be placed correctly.
F B D A C C A G E D
5. Write the requested triad for each example.
C Major G Major F Major C Major F Major G Major
6. Draw a TREBLE CLEF and then using HALF NOTES, write a one octave F Major and G Major scale
using the key signature or the accidental. Stems must be placed correctly.
7. Draw a BASS CLEF and then using WHOLE NOTES, write a one octave F Major and G Major scale
using the key signature or the accidental.
8. Separate the following notes into measures by adding bar lines and double bar line in 4/4 time.
9. Separate the following notes into measures by adding bar lines and double bar line in 3/4 time
NFMC Theory Test Level 3, p 3
10. Identify the following intervals.
_______ _______ _______ _______ _______
______ ________ _______ _______ _______
11. Write the letter in the space that matches the definition.
_____ a curved line connecting two notes on A. legato
different lines and/or spaces
_____ short, detached B. triad
_____ smooth, connected C. 8va
_____ play an octave higher or lower than written D. slur
_____ a three-note chord E. staccato
12. Add ONE REST to make each measure complete in 3/4 time.
National Federation of Music Clubs – Festival Theory Test
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Level 4 Practice Test 2020
1. Write the name of the major key represented by these key signatures.
_______ _______ _______ _______ _______
_______ _______ _______ _______ _______
2. Form triads above each of these notes.
3. Choose the words from the box to match the dynamic symbol with its meaning.
dim. ___________________ f __________________
p ___________________ mf ___________________
mp ___________________ cresc. ___________________
4. These measures are incomplete. Add one REST to complete each measure in 3/4 time.
loud
soft
gradually louder
gradually softer
moderately loud
moderately soft
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 4 p. 2
5. These measures are incomplete. Add one REST to complete each measure in 4/4 time.
6. Add bar lines to make this group of notes fit into measures of 4/4 time; add a double bar line.
7. Add bar lines to make this group of notes fit into measures of 3/4 time; add a double bar line.
8. Draw a treble clef and key signature for D Major. Write an ascending (going up) D major scale
using half notes. Stems must be placed in the correct direction.
9. Draw a bass clef and key signature for D Major. Write an ascending (going up) D major scale
using half notes. Stems must be placed in the correct direction.
10. Name these notes on ledger lines. Notice the clef sign. (Score 1 point for each correct answer.)
_____ _____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____
_____ _____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 4 p. 3
11. Write an ENHARMONIC note next to the given note.
12. Write the letter in the space that matches the definition.
_____ moderato
_____ allegro
_____ fermata
_____ accent
_____ andante
_____ D.C. al fine
13. Draw a WHOLE note to form the interval ABOVE the given note.
5th 4th 7th 3rd 6th
7th 2nd 4th 3rd 6th
A. tempo word meaning fast and lively
B. means to stress this note
C. return to beginning and play until “fine” or the end
D. tempo word meaning walking speed
E. means hold the note longer than its value
F. tempo word meaning medium or moderate speed
National Federation of Music Clubs – Festival Theory Test
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Level 5 Practice Test 2020
1. Write the indicated key signatures.
e minor G Major F Major D Major a minor
D Major F Major G Major G Major a minor
2. A. Write the dynamic symbols from the box in order from SOFTEST to LOUDEST.
1. _____ 2. _____ 3. _____ 4. _____ 5. _____ 6._____
B. Which term from the box shows the same meaning as the order of the
dynamic symbols written above? _______________________
C. Which term from the box shows the opposite meaning? _____________
3. Match the definition to the correct term in the first column.
_____ phrase a. gradually slower
_____ a tempo b. musical sentence
_____ D.C. al fine c. broken chord
_____ arpeggio d. return to original speed
_____ D.S. al fine e. go back to the sign and play until “fine” or the end
_____ ritardando f. go back to the beginning and play until “fine” or the end
cresc. dim.
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 5 p. 2
4. Transpose this melody DOWN one octave.
5. Transpose this melody UP one octave.
6. Add bar lines, including a double bar line, to make measures of 3/4 time.
7. Add bar lines, including a double bar line, to make measures of 4/4 time.
8. Label the triads with the letter name and whether it is Major or minor.
Ex. C Major ______ ______ ______ ______ ______
Ex. C Major ______ ______ ______ ______ ______
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 5 p. 3
9. A. How many categories of orchestral instruments are there? _____________
B. Name the categories of orchestral instruments
_______________________________________________________________________________
10. Write the requested interval ABOVE the given note.
M6 P4 M7 M2 P8
M6 M7 P4 P5 P8
11. Write a descending (going down) a natural minor scale for one octave, using quarter notes.
12. Write an ascending (going up) e natural minor scale for one octave, using half notes.
13. A. Write the dynamic symbols from the box in order from LOUDEST to SOFTEST.
1. _____ 2. _____ 3. _____ 4. _____ 5. _____ 6._____
B. Which term from the box shows the same meaning as the order of the
dynamic symbols written above? _______________________
C. Which term from the box shows the opposite meaning? _____________
cresc. dim.
National Federation of Music Clubs – Festival Theory Test
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Level 6 Practice Test 2020
1. Write the letter name of the root of the inversions below and indicate whether it is major or minor.
(Ex. b minor)
________ __________ _________ _________ __________
________ __________ _________ _________ __________
2. Write a note above the given note to form the indicated interval.
m3 M2 M6 m7 P5
P5 M3 M7 P4 M6
3. Add bar lines, including a double bar line to make this group of notes fit into measures of 3/4 time.
4. Give the family name (category) for each instrument below.
______________ _____________ ________________ _____________ ______________ _____________ ____________
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 6, p. 2
5. A. Write the letter in the space that matches the definition.
_____ two-part invention a. contrapuntal piece for keyboard
_____ fugue b. short, introductory piece usually with one musical idea
_____ minuet c. French dance in moderate 3/4 time
_____ prelude d. imitative piece with subject, answer, and countersubject
B. Write the letter in the space that best matches the composer description.
_____ Vivaldi a. English/German composer of Messiah and Water Music
_____ Scarlatti b. Italian violinist and orchestral composer of Four Seasons
_____ Handel c. German, master composer of Well-tempered Clavier and church music
_____ Bach d. Italian harpsichordist and composer of keyboard sonatas
C. What are the approximate dates of the Baroque period of music history? ________ to _________
6. Write the requested inversion of each triad.
F Major 1st g minor 2nd D Major 1st C Major 2nd a minor 2nd
C minor 1st g minor 1st A Major 1st d minor 2nd F Major 2nd
7. Draw a bass or treble clef, then write a descending d natural minor scale, using quarter notes.
8. Draw a bass or treble clef, then write an ascending A Major scale. Any note value is acceptable.
9. Draw a bass or treble clef, then write an ascending E Major scale using quarter notes.
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 6, p. 3
10. Choose the item number from the list on the right that best defines the given term.
11. Write the indicated key signatures.
A Major d minor F Major b minor E Major
E Major b minor d minor A Major F Major
12. Transpose this melody to C Major.
13. Transpose this melody to the treble clef.
_____ reed
_____ concertmaster
_____ baton
_____ accelerando
_____ adagio
_____ vivace
_____ conductor
_____ harpsichord
1. fast, lively
2. conductor’s stick
3. keyboard instrument
4. thin strip of cane or wood used in woodwind instruments
5. slowly
6. gradually get faster
7. orchestra or choir director
8. first violinist
National Federation of Music Clubs – Festival Theory Test
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LEVEL 7 Practice Test 2020
1. Write the time signature represented by these rhythms. Select from the following: 2/4, 3/4, 6/8, C
a._____ c.____ e. ___
b. _____ d.____
2. Identify these woodwind instruments:
_____________ ______________ _______________ _______________ ____________
a. double reed, higher pitch range, exotic sound __________________________________________
b. single reed, orchestra and band member, mellow tone color ______________________________
c. single reed, brass body, band and jazz essential ________________________________________
d. no reed, made of wood or metal, held horizontally ______________________________________
e. double reed, orchestra member, lower pitch range ______________________________________
3. Transpose this melody to F Major. Include the correct key signature and time signature.
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 7 p. 2
4. Write a note above the given note to form the indicated interval.
M6 m3 M7 m2 dim 5
m6 Aug 4 M7 m3 M2
5. Name each key as Major or minor represented by the indicated key signature and tonic note.
_________ _________ __________ _________ __________
_________ _________ __________ _________ __________
6. Complete this melody using a sequence.
7. Choose the item number from the right that best defines the given term.
_____ adagio
_____ tonic
_____ dominant
_____ dolce
_____ sforzando
_____allegretto
_____ Roman numerals
_____ accelerando
_____ sequence
_____ a tempo
_____ rallentando
1. gradually slower
2. used in music analysis to
identify diatonic triads
3. gradually faster
4. slowly
5. sweetly
6. forceful accent
7. return to the original speed
8. first tone of scale, key center
9. fifth tone of a scale, needs
Resolution
10. moderately fast
11. melody motive repeated at
successively higher or lower
intervals
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 7 p. 3
8. A. What are the approximate dates of the Classical period of music history? ________ to __________
B. Match the composer with his description. (Beethoven, Haydn, Mozart)
________________ Musical servant to the same family for 30 years; known for 104 symphonies, string
quartets, piano works, and oratorios; wrote “Surprise.”
_______________ Known for 32 piano sonatas, 9 symphonies, one opera; stormy temperament; became deaf;
composed music for “Ode to Joy.”
_______________ As a child, performed for royalty around the world; died young; known for 41 symphonies,
operas, concertos, piano sonatas, and chamber music; famous for “a little night music.”
C. Matching: Write the letter in the space that best defines the term.
_____ sonata a. French dance in moderate 3/4 time and ABA form
_____ symphony b. Multi-movement work for piano or solo instrument and piano
_____ concerto c. First movement in classical form using exposition, development and
recapitulation.
_____ sonata-allegro d. Multi-movement work for small chamber ensemble
_____ minuet e. Multi-movement work for orchestra
_____ string quartet f. Large-scale work for solo instrument and orchestra
9. Write root position triads above the given notes as indicated.
Augmented diminished minor diminished Augmented
minor diminished Augmented Major diminished
10. Name these notes on ledger lines.
_____ _____ ____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____
National Federation of Music Clubs – Festival Theory Test
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LEVEL 8 Practice Test 2020
1. Write a note above the given note to form the indicated interval.
Aug 6 dim 4 P4 dim 8 Aug 5
2. Identify these brass instruments:
_____________ _____________ ___________ _________ ________________
The ____________________ is the lowest sounding; held with bell upward; usually plays harmonic bass notes.
The ____________________ is the highest sounding; orchestra, band, and jazz essential.
The ____________________ uses a slide to change pitch.
The ____________________ is a valveless military instrument used for “wake-up” calls and “lights out” signals.
The ____________________ sound evokes a call to the hunt; usually played with hand in the bell.
3. Transpose the following melody to b minor
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 8 p. 2
4. A. The approximate dates of the Romantic period in music history are __________ to __________.
B. Match the composer to his description:
(Brahms, Chopin, Liszt, Schubert, Schumann, Tchaikovsky, Verdi, Wagner)
_______________ German, often collaborating with his wife, wrote art songs and piano cycles such as Scenes
from Childhood, later wrote symphonies and other orchestral works.
_____________ German, best known for his cycle of four operas and often referred to as the Ring Cycle
_______________ Russian, composer of ballets, symphonies, and the well-known 1812 Overture.
_______________ Italian, major opera composer, best known for La Traviata, Rigoletto and Aida
_______________ Polish, wrote many piano works in triple meter with titles taken from his culture’s dances
(polonaise, mazurka), as well as waltzes, nocturnes, and etudes.
_______________ Hungarian, famous as performer, interest in gypsy music, composed challenging piano
Transcendental Etude.
5. Choose the item number from the right that best defines the given term.
_____ tone poem _____ art song (lieder)
_____ ballet _____ alla breve
_____ etude _____ chromatic scale
_____ senza _____ virtuoso
_____ waltz _____ lento
_____ program music _____ a cappella
_____ tempo rubato
6. Write the enharmonic note next to each given note.
7. Write I, IV, or V below each measure to indicate which chord progression provides the best
harmonization of this melody.
_____ _____ _____ _____ _____
1. solo voice and piano
2. performer of unusual skill and
technical mastery
3. orchestral music for dance
theater
4. unaccompanied singing
5. common time or 4/4 meter
6. instrumental music based on a
story, idea or other non-
musical element
7. musical scale with twelve
pitches, each a semitone above
or below its adjacent pitches
8. lilting dance in triple
meter
9. little
10. without
11. expressive variation
of tempo
12. cut time or 2/2 meter
13. rather slowly
14. technical study
15. a one movement
programmatic
composition for orchestra
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 8 p. 3
8. Write the indicated key signatures and the tonic note.
Ex. e minor c minor Db Major g minor f# minor B Major
Db Major f# minor c minor B Major Eb Major
9. Identify each chord by letter name, quality (Maj, min, Aug, dim) and root or inversion (1st or 2nd).
Ex. C Major root _________ _________ _________ _________ _________
Ex. C Major root _________ __________ _________ _________ __________
10. Write the time signature represented by these rhythms. Select from the following: 2/2, 2/4, 3/4, 6/8, 9/8
a. ____ b. ____ c. ____
d. _____ e. _____
National Federation of Music Clubs – Festival Theory Test
Copyright © 2020 National Federation of Music Clubs All Rights Reserved
LEVEL 9 - Practice Theory Test 2020
1. Identify the intervals by number and quality.
Ex. dim 5 _________ _________ _________ _________ ________
2. Write the indicated key signatures and the dominant note.
Ex. e minor F# Major f minor bb minor Gb Major c# minor
3. Write the indicated key signature and the tonic note
Ex. e minor Gb Major bb minor g# minor F# Major f minor
4. Transpose the following melody to Ab Major.
5. Write an ascending whole tone scale using quarter notes beginning on Eb.
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 9 p. 2
6. Write a descending whole tone scale using eighth notes beginning on D.
7. Identify these string instruments by filling in the blanks:
a. The _________________is played by the concertmaster and is the smallest of the string orchestra.
b. The ________________ is a non-standard orchestral string instrument using pedals and many tuning pegs.
Glissandos and arpeggios are played often on this upright instrument.
c. The _________________has the largest body and is usually bowed in the orchestra and plucked in jazz.
d. The _________________is held between the knees when played and is the tenor voice of the string family.
e. The sound of the ___________________ is rich and dark in tone color and is usually read in the alto clef.
a. b. c. d. e.
_________ __________________ ___________ _________________ ___________
8. Indicate the music historical period in which the following forms originated or had their greatest popularity.
fugue __________________ string quartet __________________ art song/lieder ___________________
concerto ________________ sonata allegro __________________ symphony _____________________
prelude _______________ etude ____________________ waltz _________________
minuet ________________ program music ______________
9. Write i, iv, or V below each measure to indicate which chord provides the best harmonization of this melody.
_____ _____ _____ _____ _____
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 9 p. 3
10. Write the requested inverted triads.
Ex. C Major 1st g# minor 1st E Major 1st ab dim 2nd F Aug 2nd B dim. lst
11. A. The approximate dates of the Impressionist era in music history are __________ to _________.
B. Match the composer to his description: (Debussy, Ravel)
______________ French; composed Mother Goose Suite, first for piano duet, then for orchestra; also composed the popular
Bolero for orchestra featuring a repeated melody presenting a crescendo throughout the piece.
______________ French; influenced by Javanese gamelan orchestra; wrote 24 piano preludes; famous for
Claire de Lune; preferred flute tone color in orchestral works
C. Choose the item number from the box that best matches the given definition.
______ instrumental music based on a story
______ set of notes with twelve pitches, each a semitone above or below its adjacent pitches
______ interval of three whole steps
______ musical style focused on the evocative, coloristic effects of sound rather than traditional harmonic progression
______ scale with five notes per octave
______ series of chords with same intervallic structure
______ ascending or descending series of tones made up entirely of whole steps
______ musical style closely aligned with poetry and literature and often using chromatic harmony
12. Write the time signature best represented by these rhythms.
Select from these: , , 2/4, 3/4, 6/8, 9/8, 12/8. Any time signature will be used only once.
a. _____ b. _____ c. ____
d. _____ e. _____
1 whole tone scale 2 chromatic scale 3 parallelism 4 tritone
5 Impressionism 6 Romanticism 7 program music 8 pentatonic scale
National Federation of Music Clubs – Festival Theory Test
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LEVEL 10 – Practice Theory Test 2020
1. Identify the key represented by the key signature and tonic note.
____________ ____________ _____________ ____________ ____________
2. Write the time signature represented by these rhythms. Select from these: 2/4, 3/4, 4/4, 6/8, 9/8, 12/8.
_____ _____ _____
_____ _____
3. Choose the item number from the box that best matches the given definition.
_____ 3 or more adjacent tones sounding simultaneously
_____ style of piano composition featuring steady left hand accompaniment to a syncopated right hand melody
_____ tone combination that is unstable and tense
____ style of composition featuring improvisation, syncopation, steady beat, and distinctive tone colors
_____ time signature changes within a piece
____ accent at an unexpected time, especially between beats or on a weak beat
_____ style of composition using specified order of all 12 chromatic pitches
_____ music that has its origins in the melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic traditions of nations, regions, or cultures
_____ tone combination that is stable and restful
____ absence of key center
4. Write an appropriate melody over the given chords. (Hint: use mostly chord tones especially on strong beats)
1 atonality 2 changing meter 3 consonance 4 dissonance 5 folk music 6 jazz 7 ragtime
8 syncopation 9 tone cluster 10 twelve-tone music 11 whole tone scale 12 tritone
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 10, p. 2
5. A. Match the composer to his description: Bartok, Gershwin, Joplin, Schoenberg, Stravinsky
________________ Austrian; developed twelve-tone system of composition; known for extremely dissonant music
_________________ American; used jazz elements in his “classical” music; composer of Rhapsody in Blue
_________________ American; preeminent composer of ragtime music; especially well know for The Entertainer
_________________ Russian; famous for ballet music based upon folklore, including The Firebird; shocked
audiences with rhythmic and percussive innovations in Le Sacre du Printemps
_________________ Hungarian; famous for incorporating folk tunes in his rhythmic and sometimes percussive style,
especially in the graded piano collections known as Mikrokosmos
B. Circle the characteristics typical of music written in the early Modern Era (about 1900 – 1945)
serialism balanced, symmetrical phrases atonality expanded rhythmic language
traditional harmony free use of dissonance soaring, expressive melody changing meter
6. Transpose the following music to the key of e minor.
7. Compose a twelve-tone row melody.
8. Circle the percussion instruments listed below which have definite pitch (i.e., produce tones)
9. Write a note below and to the right of the given note to form the indicated descending melodic intervals.
Ex. dim 5 Major 6 Aug 8 dim 5 minor 2 Perfect 5
10. Using accidentals only, write these triads in the key of A Major.
IV6 ii vi6/4 V7 I6
chimes cymbals glockenspiel gong marimba snare drum
tambourine timpani triangle xylophone chimes cymbals glockenspiel gong marimba snare drum tambourine timpani triangle xylophone
National Federation of Music Clubs – Festival Theory Test
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LEVEL 11 – Practice Test 2020
1. Match these descriptions with one of the named composers. (Bernstein, Cage, Copland, Glass, Ives, Zwilich)
_________________ American composer who was the first female to win the Pulitzer Prize for Music with her Three
Movements for Orchestra, Symphony No. 1; commemorated Handel’s 300th anniversary by
quoting him in a Concerto Grosso.
_________________ Prolific American composer who developed the minimalist style; recent works are more lyrical
and “neo-romantic”; famous for Einstein on the Beach opera.
_________________ American composer well-known for suites and ballet music; composed Fanfare for the
Common Man and Appalachian Spring. Also known for art song and piano music.
_________________ Innovative American composer; famous for 4’33” and sonatas for “prepared piano.”
_________________ American composer, conductor, and pianist who incorporated “serious” and popular music in
his musical West Side Story; also known for the works Chichester Psalms and On the Town.
2. Using accidentals only, write an ascending and descending D harmonic minor scale. Be sure to include a
clef. Any note value is acceptable.
3. Circle any TEN of the instruments below that are included in the modern symphony orchestra.
timpani string bass trombone trumpet recorder tuba saxophone flute harp kazoo maracas
violin viola xylophone bugle cello clarinet cymbals drum set electric guitar oboe piano
4. Write a note above the given note to form the indicated intervals.
Ex. dim 5 Perfect 12 dim 13 Aug 11 Major 10 minor 9
5. Write the time signature represented by these rhythms.
a.____ b. ____ c. ____
d. ____ e. ____
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 11 p. 2
6. Transpose the following music to the key of Bb Major. Be sure to include clefs, key and time signatures.
7. Write the inverted equivalent of the following intervals.
Minor 2nd ______ Diminished 5th _____ Major 6th _____ Augmented 3rd _____ Perfect 4th _____
8. Write an appropriate alto part in this progression. Avoid using parallel 4ths, 5ths and octaves.
F: I V6 I ii6 V I I6 V - I
9. Choose the item number from the box that best describes the given definition
______ rhythmic relationship of three notes in the time of two or two notes in the time of three, shifting from triple to duple
______ style of composition using specified order of all 12 chromatic pitches
______ highly contrasting rhythms performed simultaneously
______ music where certain elements are selected by random means or where performer is allowed to choose the
musical material; chance music
______ time signature changes within a piece
10. Write the harmonic analysis below this progression; indicate inversions and circle non-harmonic tones.
____ ___ ____ ____ ____ _____ ____ ____
1 aleatory 2 changing meter 3 electronic 4 hemiola 5 minimalism 6 polyrhythm 7 tone cluster 8 twelve-tone
Doubling rules:
Root position – 1 or 5
First Inversion – anything goes
Second inversion – 5
National Federation of Music Clubs – Festival Theory Test
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`
LEVEL 12 – Practice Test 2020
1. Using accidentals only, write an ascending and descending F melodic minor scale. Be sure to include a
clef. Any note value is acceptable.
2. Assign appropriate instruments to these chamber ensembles:
A. String Trio: _____________________________________
B. Woodwind Quintet: ________________________________
C. Piano Trio: ______________________________________
D. String Quartet: ___________________________________
E. Brass Quintet: ____________________________________
3. Write authentic, plagal, or half under each measure to identify each cadence.
_______ ________ _________ _________ _________
4. Write Major-minor seventh (dominant 7th) chords on the given notes.
5. A. Circle the groups of notes that equal the given group
B. Write the time signature for the given group in “A”: ___________
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 12 p. 2
6. Write or identify the intervals as directed.
Ex. Major 3rd minor 3 _____ dim 6 _____ _____
7. Choose from the following, the appropriate historical style period for each composer. Middle Ages [MA], Renaissance [Ren], Baroque [Bar], Classical [Cl], Romantic [Rom], Modern (20th Century +) [Mod]
Bartok _______ Brahms ________ Byrd __________ Cage ________ Handel_________
Machaut ________ Mozart ____________ Scarlatti ________Schumann _______ Schoenberg ________
8. Write the soprano, alto and tenor parts to accompany this bass line progression, using the figured bass
inversions as indicated. Avoid using parallel 4ths, 5ths and octaves. Hint: Use little movement for each
individual voice.
V4/2 I6 IV6 V6/5 I
9. Write the harmonic analysis for the following music below the staff, indicating inversions and circling
non-harmonic tones. Then transpose the music to the key of C# minor.
__ __ __ __ ___
10. A. The dates for the Renaissance period of music history are ________ to __________.
The Middle Ages music historical period extended from _______ to _________.
B. Match the definition with the correct term from the box.
_____ two or more melodic lines of equal importance sounding simultaneously
_____ traveling poet-musician in France during the Middle Ages
_____ choral composition set to 5 standard Latin sacred texts used in Catholic Church service
_____ music that is not specifically religious
_____ melody with chordal accompaniment
_____ secular vocal part song popular in the Renaissance
_____ medieval polyphony made up of Gregorian chant and one or more added melodic lines
_____ composition for several a cappella voices set to a sacred Latin poem
1 chanson
2 Gregorian chant
3 homophonic
4 madrigal
5 mass
6 monophonic
7 motet
8 organum
9 polyphonic
10 sacred
11 secular
12 troubadour
Doubling rules:
Root position – 1 or 5
First Inversion – anything goes
Second inversion – 5
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National Federation of Music Clubs - Festival Theory Test
Level 1 Answer Key 2020
1. Fill in the blanks with the missing letter to complete the musical alphabet from low to high.
B C D E F G A B C D C D E F G E F G A B F G A B C
A B C D E C D E F G D E F G A G A B C D C D E F G
2. Draw 1 HALF NOTE in each measure Draw 1 WHOLE NOTE in each measure
in different spaces. on different lines.
Write only one note in each measure!!
Down stems need be on the left and up stems need to be on the right of the note head.
Draw 1 QUARTER NOTE in each measure Draw 1 HALF NOTE in each measure
in different spaces. on different lines.
3. Circle only the QUARTER notes.
------------- ANY SPACE ---------------- ------------------ ANY LINE -------------------------
---
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 1, p. 2
4. Circle only the HALF notes.
5. Circle only the WHOLE notes.
6. Circle ONLY the notes in SPACES.
7. Circle the HIGHEST note in each measure.
8. Circle the LOWEST note in each measure.
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 1, p. 3
9. Circle ONLY the notes on LINES.
10. Circle ONLY the measures with notes that SKIP up or down.
11. Circle ONLY the measures with notes that STEP up or down.
12. Write the letter in the space that matches the definition.
E bass clef
D play or sing softly
A treble clef
B play or sing loudly
C staff
A. B. f C.
D. p E.
National Federation of Music Clubs - Festival Theory Test
Level 2 Practice Answer Key 2020
1. Choose a word from the box that identifies the note or rest. Write the number of beats each
receives in 4/4 time.
half rest gets 2 beats
dotted half note gets 3 beats
whole note gets 4 beats
quarter rest gets 1 beat
whole rest gets 4 beats
2. Write the correct beats/counts under each note for counting the measures below. Note the 3/4 time signature.
1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 either method of counting is acceptable
1 1 1 1 1 2 1 2 3 1 1 1 1 2 1
1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3
1 1 1 1 2 1 1 2 3 1 1 1 1 2 3
3. Write the correct letter name for EACH note below.
E A C G D F B D E F
E B G C E A D F D F
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quarter rest
half rest
whole note
whole rest
dotted half note
NFMC Theory Test Level 2, p 2
4. A. Write the number of beats each note or rest receives in 4/4 time.
= 2 = 4 = 1 = 2
= 4 = 1 = 3
B. The name of this note, is a whole note.
The name of this note, is a dotted half note.
The name of this rest, is a half rest.
5. Circle the measures with intervals of a SECOND.
6. Draw a FLAT on the staff in front of each note. (Be careful to draw flat on the correct line or space.)
7. Draw a SHARP on the staff in front of each note. (Be careful to draw sharp on the correct line or space.)
8. Write the correct beats/counts under each note for counting the measures below. Note the 4/4 time signature.
either manner of counting is acceptable
1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4
1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 3 4 1 2 1 2 1 2 3 1
1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4
1 1 1 1 1 2 3 1 1 1 2 1 1 2 3 4 1 2 1 2
quarter
half
whole
dotted half
NFMC Theory Test Level 2, p 3
9. Circle the measures with intervals of a THIRD.
10. Match the musical signs with the definition by writing the letter in the space provided.
A tied notes E slur
D bar line C Grand staff
B repeat
A.
B.
D barline
A grand staff
E measure
C slur
B tie
C.
D.
E.
11. Add five whole notes to complete this C major scale.
A. B. C.
D.
E.
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National Federation of Music Clubs - Festival Theory Test
Level 3 Practice Answer Key 2020
1. Identify the following intervals as either whole steps or half steps.
Use “W” for whole step or “H” for half step for each measure.
H W W W H
H W H W H
2. Choose a word from the box that completes the chart. Each symbol will have two answers from the box.
Name of symbol: It means:
diminuendo gradually softer
p piano soft
f forte loud
crescendo gradually louder
rit. ritardando gradually slower
3. Write the letter name of the major key represented by these key signatures.
F G C F C G F
crescendo
diminuendo
forte
piano
ritardando
**************
loud
soft
gradually louder
gradually softer
gradually slower
NFMC Theory Test Level 3, p 2
4. Draw a TREBLE CLEF on the staff, then write Draw a BASS CLEF on the staff, then write
HALF NOTES over EACH of the letter names. QUARTER NOTES over EACH of the letter names.
Stems must be placed correctly. Either note is acceptable
F B D A C C A G E D
5. Write the requested triad for each example.
C Major G Major F Major C Major F Major G Major
6. Draw a TREBLE CLEF and then using HALF NOTES, write a one octave F Major and G Major scale
using the key signature or the accidental. Stems must be placed correctly. Accept either key signature or accidental, but not both
7. Draw a BASS CLEF and then using WHOLE NOTES, write a one octave F Major and G Major scale
using the key signature or the accidental. Accept either key signature or accidental, but not both
8. Separate the following notes into measures by adding bar lines and double bar line in 4/4 time.
9. Separate the following notes into measures by adding bar lines and double bar line in 3/4 time
NFMC Theory Test Level 3, p 3
10. Identify the following intervals.
2nd 4th 3rd 8th /octave 5th
5th 3rd 4th 8th /octave 2nd
11. Write the letter in the space that matches the definition.
D a curved line connecting two notes on A. legato
different lines and/or spaces
E short, detached B. triad
A smooth, connected C. 8va
C play an octave higher or lower than written D. slur
B a three-note chord E. staccato
12. Add ONE REST to make each measure complete in 3/4 time.
National Federation of Music Clubs – Festival Theory Test
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Level 4 Practice Answer Key 2020
1. Write the name of the major key represented by these key signatures.
D G F D C
G F C D F
2. Form triads above each of these notes.
3. Choose the words from the box to match the dynamic symbol with its meaning.
dim. gradually softer f loud
p soft mf moderately loud
mp moderately soft cresc. gradually louder
4. These measures are incomplete. Add one REST to complete each measure in 3/4 time.
loud
soft
gradually louder
gradually softer
moderately loud
moderately soft
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 4 p. 2
5. These measures are incomplete. Add one REST to complete each measure in 4/4 time.
6. Add bar lines to make this group of notes fit into measures of 4/4 time; add a double bar line.
7. Add bar lines to make this group of notes fit into measures of 3/4 time; add a double bar line.
8. Draw a treble clef and key signature for D Major. Write an ascending (going up) D major scale
using half notes. Stems must be placed in the correct direction. Either octave is acceptable.
9. Draw a bass clef and key signature for D Major. Write an ascending (going up) D major scale
using half notes. Stems must be placed in the correct direction. Either octave is acceptable.
10. Name these notes on ledger lines. Notice the clef sign. (Score 1 point for each correct answer.)
E C D E C A B B C A
A A C B B D F C E D
11. Write an ENHARMONIC note next to the given note.
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 4 p. 3
12. Write the letter in the space that matches the definition.
F moderato
A allegro
E fermata
B accent
D andante
C D.C. al fine
13. Draw a WHOLE note to form the interval ABOVE the given note.
5th 4th 7th 3rd 6th
7th 2nd 4th 3rd 6th
A. tempo word meaning fast and lively
B. means to stress this note
C. return to beginning and play until “fine” or the end
D. tempo word meaning walking speed
E. means hold the note longer than its value
F. tempo word meaning medium or moderate speed
National Federation of Music Clubs – Festival Theory Test
Copyright © 2020 National Federation of Music Clubs All Rights Reserved
Level 5 Practice Answer Key 2020
1. Write the indicated key signatures.
e minor G Major F Major D Major a minor
D Major F Major G Major G Major a minor
2. A. Write the dynamic symbols from the box in order from SOFTEST to LOUDEST.
1. pp 2. p 3. mp 4. mf 5. f 6. ff .
B. Which term from the box shows the same meaning as the order of the
dynamic symbols written above? cresc.
C. Which term from the box shows the opposite meaning? dim.
3. Match the definition to the correct term in the first column.
B phrase a. gradually slower
D a tempo b. musical sentence
F D.C. al fine c. broken chord
C arpeggio d. return to original speed
E D.S. al fine e. go back to the sign and play until “fine” or the end
A ritardando f. go back to the beginning and play until “fine” or the end
cresc. dim.
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 5 p. 2
4. Transpose this melody DOWN one octave. (Score 2 points for each correct note)
5. Transpose this melody UP one octave.
6. Add bar lines, including a double bar line, to make measures of 3/4 time. (Score 2 points for each correct bar line or double bar line; subtract 2 points for each incorrect bar line/double bar line,)
7. Add bar lines, including a double bar line, to make measures of 4/4 time.
8. Label the triads with the letter name and whether it is Major or minor. Must include Major or minor
Ex. C Major F Major g minor D major c minor A major
Ex. C Major A minor F Major D minor G Major C minor
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 5 p. 3
9. A. How many categories of orchestral instruments are there? 4
B. Name the categories of orchestral instruments winds is an acceptable answer
Strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion
10. Write the requested interval ABOVE the given note. (Score 2 points for each correct note.)
M6 P4 M7 M2 P8
M6 M7 P4 P5 P8
11. Write a descending (going down) a natural minor scale for one octave, using quarter notes.
12. Write an ascending (going up) e natural minor scale for one octave, using half notes. Sharps may be in key signature OR on notes, but not both as shown below.
OR 13. A. Write the dynamic symbols from the box in order from LOUDEST to SOFTEST.
1. ff 2. f 3. mf 4. mp 5. p 6. pp
B. Which term from the box shows the same meaning as the order of the
dynamic symbols written above? dim.
C. Which term from the box shows the opposite meaning? cresc.
Accept either harmonic intervals-as shown here, or melodic intervals - where added note is to the right
of the given note. If the added note is BELOW the given note, the answer is incorrect and 2 points will
be subtracted.
OR
cresc. dim.
National Federation of Music Clubs – Festival Theory Test
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Level 6 Practice Answer Key 2020
1. Write the letter name of the root of the inversions below and indicate whether it is major or minor.
(Ex. b minor) While the standard is to use uppercase letters for major and lowercase for minor, accept either, as long as
the correct letter is indicated.
A Major g minor F Major d minor c minor
G Major C major f minor a minor D Major
2. Write a note above the given note to form the indicated interval. Accept either harmonic intervals-as shown here, or melodic intervals-where added note is to the right of the
given note. Added notes below the given note are incorrect and 2 points will be subtracted.
m3 M2 M6 m7 P5
P5 M3 M7 P4 M6
3. Add bar lines, including a double bar line to make this group of notes fit into measures of 3/4 time.
4. Give the family name (category) for each instrument below.
brass woodwinds percussion strings brass woodwinds percussion
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 6, p. 2
5. A. Write the letter in the space that matches the definition.
A two-part invention a. contrapuntal piece for keyboard
D fugue b. short, introductory piece usually with one musical idea
C minuet c. French dance in moderate 3/4 time
B prelude d. imitative piece with subject, answer, and countersubject
B. Write the letter in the space that best matches the composer description.
B Vivaldi a. English/German composer of Messiah and Water Music
D Scarlatti b. Italian violinist and orchestral composer of Four Seasons
A Handel c. German, master composer of Well-tempered Clavier and church music
C Bach d. Italian harpsichordist and composer of keyboard sonatas
C. What are the approximate dates of the Baroque period of music history? 1600 to 1750
6. Write the requested inversion of each triad. Triads must be written with the indicated sharps or flats.
Enharmonic pitches (A# instead of B) are incorrect
F Major 1st g minor 2nd D Major 1st C Major 2nd a minor 2nd
C minor 1st g minor 1st A Major 1st d minor 2nd F Major 2nd
7. Draw a bass or treble clef, then write a descending d natural minor scale, using quarter notes. Correct stem direction, scale direction and note value must be used to be correct in all scales.
Flat or sharps may be in key signature OR on note, but not both as shown above or below
8. Draw a bass or treble clef, then write an ascending A Major scale. Any note value is acceptable.
9. Draw a bass or treble clef, then write an ascending E Major scale using quarter notes.
OR OR OR OR
OR
OR
OR
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 6, p. 3
10. Choose the item number from the list on the right that best defines the given term.
11. Write the indicated key signatures.
A Major d minor F Major b minor E Major
E Major b minor d minor A Major F Major
12. Transpose this melody to C Major. Accept either octave, treble C or middle C.
OR
13. Transpose this melody to the treble clef.
4 reed
8 concertmaster
2 baton
6 accelerando
5 adagio
1 vivace
7 conductor
3 harpsichord
1. fast, lively
2. conductor’s stick
3. keyboard instrument
4. thin strip of cane or wood used in woodwind instruments
5. slowly
6. gradually get faster
7. orchestra or choir director
8. first violinist
National Federation of Music Clubs – Festival Theory Test
Copyright © 2020 National Federation of Music Clubs All Rights Reserved
LEVEL 7 Practice Answer Key 2020
1. Write the time signature represented by these rhythms. Select from the following: 2/4, 3/4, 6/8, C
a. C c. 2/4 e. 6/8
b. C d. 3/4
2. Identify these woodwind instruments:
a. b. c. d. e.
saxophone bassoon clarinet flute piccolo
a. double reed, higher pitch range, exotic sound: oboe or English horn
b. single reed, orchestra and band member, mellow tone color: clarinet or bass clarinet
c. single reed, brass body, band and jazz essential: saxophone
d. no reed, made of wood or metal, held horizontally: flute or piccolo
e. double reed, orchestra member, lower pitch range: bassoon or contrabassoon 3. Transpose this melody to F Major. Include the correct key signature and time signature.
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 7 p. 2
4. Write a note above the given note to form the indicated interval. Accept either harmonic intervals-as shown here, or melodic intervals-where added note is to the right of the given note
If the added note is BELOW the given note, the answer is incorrect and 2 points should be subtracted.
M6 m3 M7 m2 dim 5
5. Name each key as Major or minor represented by the indicated key signature and tonic note. Accept abbreviations as long as it is clear answer is M or m; Maj or min. The major or minor quality must be given or
else incorrect.
Ab Major Bb Major E Major b minor Eb Major
e minor b minor E Major Ab Major Eb Major
6. Complete this melody using a sequence.
7. Choose the item number from the right that best defines the given term.
4 adagio
8 tonic
9 dominant
5 dolce
6 sforzando
10 allegretto
2 Roman numerals
3 accelerando
11 sequence
7 a tempo
1 rallentando
1. gradually slower
2. used in music analysis to
identify diatonic triads
3. gradually get faster
4. slowly
5. sweetly
6. forceful accent
7. return to the original speed
8. first tone of scale, key center
9. fifth tone of a scale, needs
resolution
10. moderately fast
11. melody motive repeated at
successively higher or lower
intervals
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 7 p. 3
8. A. What are the approximate dates of the Classical period of music history? 1750 to 1820-1830 Accept any year between 1820-1830
B. Match the composer with his description. (Beethoven, Haydn, Mozart)
Haydn Musical servant to the same family for 30 years; known for 104 symphonies, string
quartets, piano works, and oratorios; wrote “Surprise.”
Beethoven Known for 32 piano sonatas, 9 symphonies, one opera; stormy temperament; became deaf;
composed music for “Ode to Joy”
Mozart As a child, performed for royalty around the world; died young; known for 41 symphonies,
operas, concertos, piano sonatas, and chamber music; famous for “a little night music.”
C. Matching: Write the letter in the space that best defines the term.
B sonata a. French dance in moderate 3/4 time and ABA form
E symphony b. Multi-movement work for piano or solo instrument and piano
F concerto c. First movement in classical form using exposition, development and
recapitulation
C sonata-allegro d. Multi-movement work for small chamber ensemble
A minuet e. Multi-movement work for orchestra
D string quartet f. Large-scale work for solo instrument and orchestra
9. Write root position triads above the given notes as indicated.
Augmented diminished minor diminished Augmented
minor diminished Augmented Major diminished
10. Name these notes on ledger lines.
E G B A F F D A C B
Triads must be written with the
indicated sharps or flats.
Enharmonic pitches (D# instead
of Eb) are incorrect
National Federation of Music Clubs – Festival Theory Test
Copyright © 2020 National Federation of Music Clubs All Rights Reserved
LEVEL 8 Practice Answer Key 2020
1. Write a note above the given note to form the indicated interval. Accept either harmonic intervals-as shown here, or melodic intervals-where added note is to the right of the given
note. If the added note is BELOW the given note, the answer is incorrect.
Aug 6 dim 4 P4 dim 8 Aug 5
2. Fill in the blanks to identify these brass instruments:
trombone trumpet or cornet horn/Fr horn tuba bugle
The TUBA is the lowest sounding; held with bell upward; usually plays harmonic bass notes.
The TRUMPET is the highest sounding; orchestra, band, and jazz essential.
The TROMBONE uses a slide to change pitch.
The BUGLE is a valveless military instrument used for “wake-up” calls and “lights out” signals.
The FRENCH HORN sound evokes a call to the hunt; usually played with hand in the bell.
3. Transpose the following melody to b minor.
Intervals must be written
with the indicated sharps or
flats. Enharmonic pitches
(Ab instead of G#) are
incorrect.
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 8 p. 2
4. A. The approximate dates of the Romantic period in music history are 1820-25 to 1900-20. Accept any opening date between 1820 and 1830; accept any closing date between 1900 and 1920
B. Match the composer to his description:
(Brahms, Chopin, Liszt, Schubert, Schumann, Tchaikovsky, Verdi, Wagner)
Schumann German, often collaborating with his wife, wrote art songs and piano cycles such as Scenes
from Childhood, later wrote symphonies and other orchestral works.
Wagner German, best known for his cycle of four operas and often referred to as the Ring Cycle
Tchaikovsky Russian, composer of ballets, symphonies, and the well-known 1812 Overture.
Verdi Italian, major opera composer, best known for La Traviata, Rigoletto and Aida
Chopin Polish, wrote many piano works in triple meter with titles taken from his culture’s dances
(polonaise, mazurka), as well as waltzes, nocturnes, and etudes.
Liszt Hungarian, famous as performer, interest in gypsy music, composed challenging piano
Transcendental Etude.
5. Choose the item number from the right that best defines the given term.
15 tone poem 1 art song (lieder)
3 ballet 12 alla breve
14 etude 7 chromatic scale
10 senza 2 virtuoso
8 waltz 13 lento
6 program music 4 A cappella
11 tempo rubato
6. Write the enharmonic note next to each given note.
7. Write I, IV, or V below each measure to indicate which chord progression provides the best
harmonization of this melody.
I IV V V I
1. solo voice and piano
2. performer of unusual skill and
technical mastery
3. orchestral music for dance
theater
4. unaccompanied singing
5. common time or 4/4 meter
6. instrumental music based on a
story, idea or other non-
musical element
7. musical scale with twelve
pitches, each a semitone above
or below its adjacent pitches.
8. lilting dance in triple
meter
9. little
10. without
11. expressive variation
of tempo
12. cut time or 2/2 meter
13. rather slowly
14. technical study
15. a one movement programmatic
composition for orchestra
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 8 p. 3
8. Write the indicated key signatures and the tonic note.
Ex. e minor c minor Db Major g minor f# minor B Major
Db Major f# minor c minor B Major Eb Major
9. Identify each chord by letter name, quality (Maj, min, Aug, dim) and root or inversion (1st or 2nd).
Ex. C Major root E Aug 2nd b min 1st D Maj 1st a min 2nd C dim root
Ex. C Major root a min 1st G Aug 1st e dim 2nd B Maj root f dim 2nd
10. Write the time signature represented by these rhythms. Select from the following: 2/2, 2/4, 3/4, 6/8, 9/8
a. 3/4 b. 2/4 c. 9/8
d. 6/8 e. 2/2
National Federation of Music Clubs – Festival Theory Test
Copyright © 2020 National Federation of Music Clubs All Rights Reserved
LEVEL 9 Practice Answer Key 2020
1. Identify the intervals by number and quality.
Accept alternative quality word spellings: m or min=minor; M or Maj=Major; d=diminished; A=Augmented
Ex. dim 5 Major 6 Aug 5 Perfect 4 minor 2 dim 8 (or octave)
2. Write the indicated key signatures and the dominant note. Accept any note value and either upper or lower placement for dominant note
Ex. e minor F# Major f minor bb minor Gb Major c# minor
3. Write the indicated key signatures and the tonic note.
Ex. e minor Gb Major bb minor g# minor F# Major f minor
4. Transpose the following melody to Ab Major.
5. Write an ascending whole tone scale using quarter notes beginning on Eb.
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 9 p. 2
6. Write a descending whole tone scale using eighth notes beginning on D.
or or
7. Identify these string instruments by filling in the blanks:
a. The Violin is played by the concertmaster and is the smallest of the string orchestra.
b. The Harp is a non-standard orchestral string instrument using pedals and many tuning pegs.
Glissandos and arpeggios are played often on this upright instrument.
c. The String or Double Bass has the largest body and is usually bowed in the orchestra and plucked in jazz.
d. The Cello is held between the knees when played and is the tenor voice of the string family.
e. The sound of the Viola is rich and dark in tone color and is usually read in the alto clef.
a. b. c. d. e.
Double/string bass/bass Viola Harp Violin Cello
8. Indicate the music historical period in which the following forms originated or had their greatest popularity.
fugue Baroque string quartet Classical art song/lieder Romantic
concerto Baroque or Classical sonata allegro Classical symphony Classical or Romantic
prelude Baroque etude Romantic waltz Romantic
minuet Baroque program music Romantic
9. Write i, iv, or V below each measure to indicate which chord provides the best harmonization of this melody. Lower case i and iv must be used to be correct. No points for any answer using uppercase i or iv.
i V iv V i
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 9 p. 3
10. Write the requested inverted triads.
Ex. C Major 1st g# minor 1st Eb Major 1st ab dim 2nd F Aug 2nd B dim. lst
11. A. The approximate dates of the Impressionist era in music history are 1890 to 1940. Opening and closing dates of this era vary by scholarly source. Accept opening dates between 1880 and 1900;
accept closing dates between 1920 and 1940.
B. Match the composer to his description: (Debussy, Ravel)
Ravel French; composed Mother Goose Suite, first for piano duet, then for orchestra; also composed the popular
Bolero for orchestra featuring a repeated melody presenting a crescendo throughout the piece
Debussy French; influenced by Javanese gamelan orchestra; wrote 24 piano preludes; famous for Claire de Lune;
preferred flute tone color in orchestral works
C. Choose the item number from the box that best matches the given definition.
7 instrumental music based on a story
2 set of notes with twelve pitches, each a semitone above or below its adjacent pitches
4 interval of three whole steps
5 musical style focused on the evocative, coloristic effects of sound rather than traditional harmonic progression
8 scale with five notes per octave
3 series of chords with same intervallic structure
1 ascending or descending series of tones made up entirely of whole steps
6 musical style closely aligned with poetry and literature and often using chromatic harmony
12. Write the time signature best represented by these rhythms.
Select from these: , , 2/4, 3/4, 6/8, 9/8, 12/8. Any time signature will be used only once.
a. 6/8 b. c. 3/4
d. 9/8 e. C
1 whole tone scale 2 chromatic scale 3 parallelism 4 tritone
5 Impressionism 6 Romanticism 7 program music 8 pentatonic scale
National Federation of Music Clubs – Festival Theory Test
Copyright © 2020 National Federation of Music Clubs All Rights Reserved
LEVEL 10 – Practice Answer Key 2020
1. Identify the key represented by the key signature and tonic note. The major or minor quality is part of the key name and must be included or answer is incorrect.
Accept either upper or lower case key name letters whether the key is major or minor
d# minor Cb Major eb minor ab minor C# Major
2. Write the time signature represented by these rhythms. Select from these: 2/4, 3/4, 4/4, 6/8, 9/8, 12/8.
3/4 4/4 6/8
12/8 9/8
3. Choose the item number from the box that best matches the given definition.
9 3 or more adjacent tones sounding simultaneously
7 style of piano composition featuring steady left hand accompaniment to a syncopated right hand melody
4 tone combination that is unstable and tense
6 style of composition featuring improvisation, syncopation, steady beat, and distinctive tone colors
2 time signature changes within a piece
8 accent at an unexpected time, especially between beats or on a weak beat
10 style of composition using specified order of all 12 chromatic pitches
5 music that has its origins in the melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic traditions of nations, regions, or cultures
3 tone combination that is stable and restful
1 absence of key center
4. Write an appropriate melody over the given chords. (Hint: use mostly chord tones especially on strong beats)
1 atonality 2 changing meter 3 consonance 4 dissonance 5 folk music 6 jazz 7 ragtime
8 syncopation 9 tone cluster 10 twelve-tone music 11 whole tone scale 12 tritone
ANSWERS WILL VARY. EACH MEASURE SHOULD CONTAIN MOSTLY CHORD TONES.
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 10, p. 2
5. A. Match the composer to his description: Bartok, Gershwin, Joplin, Schoenberg, Stravinsky
Schoenberg Austrian; developed twelve-tone system of composition; known for extremely dissonant music
Gershwin American; used jazz elements in his “classical” music; composer of Rhapsody in Blue
Joplin American; preeminent composer of ragtime music; especially well known for The Entertainer
Stravinsky Russian; famous for ballet music based upon folklore, including The Firebird; shocked
audiences with rhythmic and percussive innovations in Le Sacre du Printemps
Bartok Hungarian; famous for incorporating folk tunes in his rhythmic and sometimes percussive style,
especially in the graded piano collections known as Mikrokosmos
B. Circle the characteristics typical of music written in the early Modern Era (about 1900 – 1945)
serialism balanced, symmetrical phrases atonality expanded rhythmic language
traditional harmony free use of dissonance soaring, expressive melody changing meter
6. Transpose the following music to the key of e minor. Accept either upper or lower transposition below.
or
7. Compose a twelve-tone row melody.
8. Circle the percussion instruments listed below which have definite pitch (i.e. produce tones)
9. Write a note below and to the right of the given note to form the indicated descending melodic intervals.
Ex. dim 5 Major 6 Aug 8 dim 5 minor 2 Perfect 5
10. Using accidentals only, write these triads in the key of A Major.
IV6 ii vi6/4 V7 I6
ANSWERS WILL VARY. ALL 12 TONES OF CHROMATIC SCALE SHOULD BE
USED ONLY ONCE. CHROMATIC SCALE IS NOT ACCEPTABLE AS A MELODY.
chimes cymbals glockenspiel gong marimba snare drum
tambourine timpani triangle xylophone
OR OR
National Federation of Music Clubs – Festival Theory Test
Copyright © 2020 National Federation of Music Clubs All Rights Reserved
LEVEL 11 – Practice Answer Key 2020
1. Match these descriptions with one of the named composers. (Bernstein, Cage, Copland, Glass, Ives, Zwilich)
Zwilich American composer who was the first female to win the Pulitzer Prize for Music with her Three
Movements for Orchestra, Symphony No. 1; commemorated Handel’s 300th anniversary by quoting him
in a Concerto Grosso.
Glass Prolific American composer who developed the minimalist style; recent works are more lyrical and “neo-
romantic”; famous for Einstein on the Beach opera.
Copland American composer well-known for suites and ballet music; composed Fanfare for the Common Man and
Appalachian Spring. Also known for art song and piano music.
Cage Innovative American composer; famous for 4’33” and sonatas for “prepared piano.”
Bernstein American composer, conductor, and pianist who incorporated “serious” and popular music in his musical
West Side Story; also known for the works Chichester Psalms and On the Town.
2. Using accidentals only, write an ascending and descending D harmonic minor scale. Be sure to include a
clef. Any note value is acceptable. Either clef is acceptable
3. Circle TEN of the instruments below that are included in the modern symphony orchestra.
timpani string bass trombone trumpet recorder tuba saxophone flute harp kazoo maracas
violin viola xylophone bugle cello clarinet cymbals drum set electric guitar oboe piano
4. Write a note above the given note to form the indicated intervals.
Ex. dim 5 Perfect 12 dim 13 Aug 11 Major 10 minor 9
5. Write the time signature represented by these rhythms.
a. 12/8 b. 5/4 c. 11/16
d. 6/8 e. 7/8
OR
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 11 p. 2
6. Transpose the following music to the key of Bb Major. Be sure to include clefs, key and time signatures.
7. Write the inverted equivalent of the following intervals.
Minor 2nd M 7 Diminished 5th Aug 4 Major 6th m 3 Augmented 3rd dim 6 Perfect 4th P 5
(Major 7th) (Augmented 4th) (minor 3rd) (diminished 6th) (Perfect 5th)
8. Write an appropriate alto part in this progression. Avoid using parallel 4ths, 5ths and octaves.
F: I V6 I ii6 V I I6 V - I
9. Choose the item number from the box that best describes the given definition.
4 rhythmic relationship of three notes in the time of two or two notes in the time of three, shifting from triple to duple
8 style of composition using specified order of all 12 chromatic pitches
6 highly contrasting rhythms performed simultaneously
1 music where certain elements are selected by random means or where performer is allowed to choose the
musical material; chance music
2 time signature changes within a piece
10. Write the harmonic analysis below this progression; indicate inversions and circle non-harmonic tones.
i V6/4 iv i6 V6/4 iv6 V7 i
1 aleatory 2 changing meter 3 electronic 4 hemiola 5 minimalism 6 polyrhythm 7 tone cluster 8 twelve-tone
Doubling rules:
Root position – 1 or 5
First Inversion – anything goes
Second inversion – 5
Answers may vary, but should be mostly chord tones
Lower and upper case Roman numerals must be used as indicated to be correct
National Federation of Music Clubs – Festival Theory Test
Copyright © 2020 National Federation of Music Clubs All Rights Reserved
`
LEVEL 12 – Practice Answer Key 2020
1. Using accidentals only, write an ascending and descending F melodic minor scale. Be sure to include a
clef. Any note value is acceptable.
Either clef acceptable
2. Assign appropriate instruments to these chamber ensembles:
A. String Trio: Violin, Viola and Cello
B. Woodwind Quintet: Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, French horn
C. Piano Trio: Piano, Violin and Cello
D. String Quartet: Two Violins, Viola, Cello
E. Brass Quintet: Two trumpets/cornets, French horn, Trombone/Euphonium/Baritone, Bass Trombone/Tuba
3. Write authentic, plagal, or half under each measure to identify each cadence.
plagal half authentic authentic half
4. Write Major-minor seventh (dominant 7th) chords on the given notes.
5. A. Circle the groups of notes that equal the given group
B. Write the time signature for the given group in “A”: 2/4 OR 4/8 OR 8/16
NFMC Festival Theory Test Level 12 p. 2
6. Write or identify the intervals as directed.
Ex. Major 3rd minor 3 Aug 5 dim 6 m7 Aug 9
Augmented 5th minor 7th Augmented 9th
7. Choose from the following, the appropriate historical style period for each composer. Middle Ages [MA], Renaissance [Ren], Baroque [Bar], Classical [Cl], Romantic [Rom], Modern (20th Century +) [Mod]
Bartok Modern Brahms Romantic Byrd Renaissance Cage Modern Handel Baroque
Machaut Middle Ages Mozart Classical Scarlatti Baroque Schumann Romantic Schoenberg Modern
8. Write the soprano, alto and tenor parts to accompany this bass line progression, using the figured bass
inversions as indicated. Avoid using parallel 4ths, 5ths and octaves. Hint: Use little movement for each
individual voice.
CEGBb FAC BbDF CEGBb FAC
V4/2 I6 IV6 V6/5 I
9. Write the harmonic analysis for the following music below the staff, indicating inversions and circling
non-harmonic tones. Then transpose the music to the key of C# minor.
i i iv V7 i
10. A. The dates for the Renaissance period of music history are 1450 to 1600.
The Middle Ages music historical period extended from 450 to 1450.
B. Match the definition with the correct term from the box.
9 two or more melodic lines of equal importance sounding simultaneously
12 traveling poet-musician in France during the Middle Ages
5 choral composition set to 5 standard Latin sacred texts used in Catholic Church service
11 music that is not specifically religious
3 melody with chordal accompaniment
4 secular vocal part song popular in the Renaissance
8 medieval polyphony made up of Gregorian chant and one or more added melodic lines
7 composition for several a cappella voices set to a sacred Latin poem
1 chanson
2 Gregorian chant
3 homophonic
4 madrigal
5 mass
6 monophonic
7 motet
8 organum
9 polyphonic
10 sacred
11 secular
12 troubadour
Doubling rules:
Root position – 1 or 5
First Inversion – anything goes
Second inversion – 5
Accept added notes as
harmonic intervals
(stacked) or melodic (one
at a time)
Opening dates of this era vary by
scholarly source. Accept opening
date of 450 OR 500