Musical Cliches 01

In everyday language, a cliché is a phrase which is often used, or overused, some might say. Clichés are said to show a lack of imagination. In the world of music, things are slightly different. A musical cliché is often a matter of audience interpretation as opposed to following a set of firm rules and definitions. This KS3 music quiz looks at the use of clichés in musical composition, particularly in film and television scores.

Glissando and tremolo are two types of musical cliché. A glissando is a glide from one pitch to another, usually a continuous slide up or down between two notes - think of the sound made by the Clangers. These are glissandos played on swannee (or slide) whistles. A tremolo is a 'trembling' effect brought about by rapidly repeating a note or by varying its loudness.

If you watch a lot of films then you should do well in this quiz. You'll know already how different types of music can affect the mood of a scene, whether happy, romantic, exciting or frightening! Have a go at this quiz and see if you know your musical clichés. Good luck!