AP Music Theory MCQs
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AP Music Theory practice questions by unit
Fiveable has 9,017 AP Music Theory multiple-choice practice questions across 9 units, plus 160 stimulus-based question sets built around a source. Practice one unit or topic at a time.
- Unit 1 – Pitch, Major Scales and Key Signatures, Rhythm, Meter, and Expressive Elements: 1,389 multiple-choice questions, 10 stimulus sets
- Unit 2 – Minor Scales and Key Signatures, Melody, Timbre, and Texture: 1,972 multiple-choice questions, 63 stimulus sets
- Unit 3 – Triads and Seventh Chords: 684 multiple-choice questions, 39 stimulus sets
- Unit 4 – Chord Function, Cadence, and Phrase: 1,259 multiple-choice questions, 9 stimulus sets
- Unit 5 – Chord Progressions and Predominant Function: 975 multiple-choice questions, 10 stimulus sets
- Unit 6 – Embellishments, Motives, and Melodic Devices: 1,695 multiple-choice questions, 10 stimulus sets
- Unit 7 – Secondary Function: 371 multiple-choice questions, 9 stimulus sets
- Unit 8 – Modes and Form: 646 multiple-choice questions, 10 stimulus sets
- Big Ideas: 26 multiple-choice questions
Sample AP Music Theory practice question
A listener observes a rhythmic pattern in a piece in 3/4 time where the accent structure temporarily shifts to imply a 3/2 meter across two measures. Which term describes this device?
Hemiola
Syncopation
Augmentation
Diminution
Explanation
Connecting the auditory effect to the theoretical term identifies the device. Hemiola specifically refers to the rhythmic superimposition of three binary beats (like 3/2) over two ternary measures (like 3/4), creating a temporary shift in accent.