Which term is used when a composer shortens a motive by using only part of it or by taking away notes?
fragmentation<----- My answer
decrescendo
theme
repetition
Your answer is correct! The term used when a composer shortens a motive by using only part of it or by taking away notes is called "fragmentation."
To figure out the answer, you can break down the question and analyze each option:
1. "Decrescendo" is a term in music that refers to a gradual decrease in volume. It does not relate to shortening a motive by using only part of it or taking away notes.
2. "Theme" refers to a melodic idea that forms the basis of a piece of music. While a theme can be fragmented, the term specifically used for this scenario is "fragmentation."
3. "Repetition" is the act of repeating a musical idea or section. Although repetition can involve shortening a motive by omitting notes, the term "fragmentation" is more specific to this context.
So, after considering all the options and their definitions, "fragmentation" is the most appropriate term for when a composer shortens a motive by using only part of it or by taking away notes.