PrepTest 130, Section 2, Question 21

ApplicationDifficulty4 of 5
Passage 4Musical complexity, expectations, and emotional responses
The questionFull text in your LawHub copy of PrepTest 130

Passage A In music, a certain complexity of(472 more words not shown)

Passage A(227 more words not shown)

Passage B(253 more words not shown)

Which one of the following(10 more words not shown)

Reading the passage

We need a concept linked to positive musical experiences in both discussions. My first thought is continuity, because A connects continuous sound with relaxation. But that only gets us halfway. Does B make that connection too?

Working the answers

  • A

    Continuous sound is important in A, but B doesn't present continuity as the source of a positive musical experience. Its account concerns expectations, tension, and familiarity. The support from A alone isn't enough.

  • B

    Tension is central to B's explanation. A doesn't describe the buildup and release of tension, so this doesn't pass the both-passages test.

  • C

    A compares music with language to explain coherence. B doesn't develop that comparison or link language to musical enjoyment.

  • D

    Neither discussion addresses improvisation.

  • E
    Correct

    A opens by saying “a certain complexity of sounds” can have a positive effect. B says trained listeners prefer complex melodies because of their higher threshold for experiencing emotion. Both therefore link some complexity to positive experience. That doesn't mean either endorses unlimited complexity for every listener.

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