The passage states that Johnson composed all of the following EXCEPT
blues pieces
Step 1: Context interpretation.
The passage likely outlines the types of music that Johnson composed, with symphonic music being the exception.
Step 2: Analyze the options.
- (A): “Jazz works” are mentioned as part of his compositions.
- (B): “Popular songs” also align with his style of composition.
- (C): “Symphonic music” is not explicitly listed among the types of music Johnson composed. Thus, this is the exception.
- (D): “Spirituals” are likely part of his musical range, considering his era and influences.
- (E): “Blues pieces” fit within his known musical scope.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (C), as symphonic music is not mentioned among his compositions.
The author suggests which of the following about most classical composers of the early 1920s?
They made few attempts to introduce innovations into the classical symphonic tradition.
Step 1: Context analysis.
The passage contrasts classical composers of the 1920s with emerging American music forms, such as jazz and blues.
Step 2: Analyze the options.
- (A): “Strongly influenced by Milhaud and Gershwin” isn’t fully supported by the passage; the focus is more on lack of familiarity.
- (B): This aligns with the passage, which suggests classical composers of that time had limited exposure to American music like jazz, blues, and popular songs.
- (C): The passage does not suggest that classical composers avoided innovation in the classical tradition.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Thus, the correct answer is (B), as the author highlights the limited familiarity of classical composers with American music.
The author suggests that most critics have
neglected Johnson’s contribution to classical symphonic music
Step 1: Context analysis.
The passage points out that Johnson’s contributions to symphonic music are underappreciated.
Step 2: Analyze the options.
- (A): “Underrated the popularity of Yamekraw” isn’t a major theme discussed in the passage.
- (B): “Undervalued Johnson’s musical abilities” is somewhat accurate but not the primary focus.
- (C): “Had little interest in Johnson’s influence on jazz” is not the author’s main criticism.
- (D): “Had little regard for classical works that incorporate popular music” is not directly mentioned.
- (E): “Neglected Johnson’s contribution to classical symphonic music” aligns with the central critique in the passage about his underappreciation.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (E), as the author focuses on critics neglecting Johnson’s contributions to symphonic music.