[Listening extract, audio available. See printed QP for questions.] A trumpet plays a melody while two trombones sustain long held chords beneath it. (a) Wh...
Question 1 Report
[Listening extract, audio available. See printed QP for questions.]
A trumpet plays a melody while two trombones sustain long held chords beneath it.
(a) What term describes the long held notes played by the trombones? [1]
(b) What is the texture created by this combination. [1]
[Total: 2 marks]
Answer Details
(a) The long held notes played by the trombones are called a pedal (also known as a pedal note or drone). [1] A pedal is a sustained or repeated note, typically in a low register, held while the harmony above it changes. In this case, the two trombones sustain long chords beneath the trumpet melody, functioning as a harmonic anchor. The term originates from organ playing, where the lowest notes are played using foot pedals.
(b) The texture created by this combination is homophonic (melody and accompaniment). [1] In homophonic texture, one voice carries the main melody while the other voices provide harmonic support. Here, the trumpet plays the principal melodic line and the two trombones provide sustained chordal accompaniment beneath it, creating a clear distinction between melody and supporting harmony.
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