The following text is from a music theory article.
Major and minor keys create distinctly different emotional effects. Major keys are typically associated with happiness, brightness, and triumph. Minor keys evoke sadness, mystery, or tension. However, skilled composers regularly subvert these associations, using major keys for bittersweet moments or minor keys for triumphant climaxes.
What is the main purpose of the text?
To teach readers how to play in different musical keys
To explain key associations while noting creative exceptions
To argue that major keys are superior to minor keys
To profile famous composers who use unconventional techniques
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. The text explains typical emotional associations with keys while noting that composers "subvert" these conventions.
- Evidence: The text explains associations: "Major keys... happiness," "Minor keys... sadness." It notes exceptions: "skilled composers regularly subvert these associations."
- Reasoning: The passage sets up a rule and then explains how experts break it.
- Conclusion: The purpose is to explain associations and note exceptions.
💡 Strategy: Identify the "Rule" (major=happy) and the "Exception" (composers subvert).
Choice A is incorrect because playing instructions aren't provided. Choice C is incorrect because no superiority is claimed. Choice D is incorrect because no specific composers are profiled.