The presentation of a subject or theme with note values doubled?

The presentation of a subject or theme with note values doubled?

• A. Diminution
• B. Augmentation
• C. Inversion
• D. Sequence

Answer: (B)

Augmentation is when a subject or theme is presented with note values doubled, expanding its rhythmic duration. This means each note lasts twice as long as in the original—quarter notes become half notes, eighth notes become quarter notes, and so on—so the melody unfolds more slowly while keeping the same contour. Such rhythmic expansion is a common way to develop a theme while preserving its recognizable shape. For contrast, diminution shortens the rhythms, inversion flips the melodic direction of intervals, and a sequence repeats the motif at different pitches with the same or related rhythms. The doubled durations specifically point to augmentation, making it the best fit.

Augmentation is when a subject or theme is presented with note values doubled, expanding its rhythmic duration. This means each note lasts twice as long as in the original—quarter notes become half notes, eighth notes become quarter notes, and so on—so the melody unfolds more slowly while keeping the same contour. Such rhythmic expansion is a common way to develop a theme while preserving its recognizable shape.

For contrast, diminution shortens the rhythms, inversion flips the melodic direction of intervals, and a sequence repeats the motif at different pitches with the same or related rhythms. The doubled durations specifically point to augmentation, making it the best fit.