As the saying goes, “Without music, life would be a mistake.” Music is very important in our lives and here are four of the greatest musicians in history.
Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827)
Born in Bonn, Germany, Beethoven never held an official position in Vienna. He supported himself by giving concerts, teaching piano, and the sale of his compositions. The last 30 years of Beethoven’s life were filled with a lot of hard times, the first of which was his deafness. Beethoven’s music greatly influenced the next generation of musicians.
Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750)
Bach, “the father of modern music”, was born in Eisenach, Germany. His parents died when he was nine years old, and in 1695 he went to live with his brother Johann Christoph, who was an organist (风琴手) in Ohrdruf. He stayed there until 1700. Seven years later, he moved back to Weimar, where he served as court (宫廷) organist for nine years. His music greatly influenced classical music.
Frederic Chopin (1810-1849)
Chopin was born in Zelazowa Wola, Poland. He showed a talent for the piano at a very young age. Chopin began composing when he was still a child, but some of his early works have been lost. He gave his first public concert in 1818. Chopin was considered as the leading musician of his time.
Franz Schubert (1797-1828)
Schubert was born and died in Vienna. Unlike most of his predecessors (前辈), Schubert was not a great performer. He never had much money but he was very productive. He wrote his first masterpiece when he was only sixteen. However, he died young, before his talents had even been known.
1. Where was Beethoven born?A.In Vienna. | B.In America. | C.In Germany. | D.In Poland. |
A.Bach. | B.Beethoven. | C.Schubert. | D.Chopin. |
A.In 1707. | B.In 1818. | C.In 1810. | D.In 1828. |
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【推荐1】Top Music Styles for Teenagers
As teenagers, music often plays a significant role in shaping their tastes, emotions, and lifestyles. Here are some recommendations for diverse music styles that might suit the tastes of young people.
Pop MusicThis genre is catchy and upbeat, perfect for dance parties and relaxation. It often features catchy melodies and relatable lyrics.
Rap and Hip-HopThese genres are known for their powerful lyrics and catchy beats. They often discuss social issues and personal experiences, making them relatable for teens seeking music with a message.
Electronic MusicElectronic music is innovative and often features a blend of different sounds and genres. It’s great for dance floors and parties, or for simply enjoying the beats.
Folk MusicFolk music offers a simpler, more natural sound, often with traditional melodies and lyrics about life and nature. It’s perfect for peaceful moments or for learning about different cultures.
Rock MusicRock music is full of energy and passion, encouraging teens to express their individuality and emotions. From classic rock to modern alternatives, there’s something for everyone.
Jazz MusicJazz is a genre that encourages improvisation and creativity. It’s perfect for teens who appreciate music with depth and complexity, and want to get into more artistic expressions.
Classical MusicClassical music, with its rich history and diverse repertoire, is perfect for teens interested in music appreciation and understanding. It can help develop listening skills and enhance concentration.
Exploring different music genres can be an enriching experience for teenagers, allowing them to discover new sounds, express their feelings, reduce their stress, stimulate creativity and connect with their peers.
1. What feature do Pop Music and Electronic Music have in common?A.They are relaxing. | B.They discuss social issues. |
C.They are great for parties. | D.They feature catchy melodies. |
A.Folk music. | B.Classic Music. | C.Jazz Music. | D.Rock Music. |
A.Reduce their pressure. | B.Improve academic performance. |
C.Develop their creativity. | D.Communicate with their friends. |
【推荐2】Music plays an important part in our lives. Music is for dancing, drinking, eating, loving and thinking. Some songs remind us of our childhood or youth. Others remind us of the people we love. Many important occasions (场合), like weddings and funerals, have special music. Every nation has a national song like the Chinese “MARCH of the VOLUNTEERS”
In the US, high schools and colleges have school songs too. Music is a part of the history of America. It expresses the problems and feelings of its people.
As the years go on, the music grows and changes. Modern science has also changed music. Inventions such as records, radios, movies, electric instruments, tape recorders and videos have changed the way we play and listen to music. They have helped to make music an important form of international communication.
American music, from the earliest folk songs to modern “pop”, is known around the world. Music is one of America's most important exports. It stands for a living history of America. And it brings the people of the world together. Even when people don’t understand the same language, they can share in the same music.
Many people learn and practice English by singing songs. Understanding American music can help you understand American people, their history and culture. So, as the song says, “Put a dime in the jukebox (自动点唱机), baby.” Let’s listen to the music!
1. What does the text mainly talk about?A.Music is changing greatly. |
B.Music is very important in our lives. |
C.There are many different kinds of music. |
D.Music is one of America’s important exports. |
A.inventions | B.changes |
C.electric instruments | D.tape recorders and videos |
A.learn English well |
B.get a good knowledge of the world |
C.solve the problems of our feelings |
D.understand American history and culture |
A.Music can help us think of the past good times. |
B.Many high schools and colleges have school songs. |
C.Music comes from the earliest folk songs. |
D.Different people can only share different kinds of music. |
【推荐3】Twenty-five young musicians from around the world have come to California to train and perform this month. They will take part in an international program called iPalpiti. The name comes from the Italian word for heartbeats.
Eduard Schmieder is the program's conductor and musical director, Schmieder and his wife started the program in 1997 with help from violinist and conductor Yehudi Menuhin.
This year, the musicians come from 19 countries, including Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Israel and Italy. Schmieder notes some of the musicians are from countries that are at war with each other.
And they are sitting next to each other, and they become friends, He says through their music and friendship, they are making the world more peaceful.
The musicians taking part in the program range in age from their late teens to their 30s.
Schmieder said they include winners of major music competitions. Peter Rainer is a violin player from Germany. He serves as concertmaster, the link between the musicians and conductor. "lt’s so great that you have so many sensitive musicians. They all are very alert and awake and listen to each other and it's a lot of fun. " Turkish viola player Can Sakul says the international group works we’ll together. "The experience is a cultural as well as a musical exchange," said Russian violinist Semyon Promoe. " Everyone has their own opinion of music, how to play every composition. It's very interesting to interact with everybody, to play together and to create one opinion for everybody. "
This year, the festival focuses on music from the 1600s to the 1900s. But cello player Franciaco Vila of Ecuador said the music has no geographic boundaries Vila added that the musicians get to know more about each other as they perform great music.
"It's interesting to see where we intersect(交集) , how many things we have in common. And also the music world is quite small, so you're only one person away from knowing everyone else" Can Sakul said the musicians who have taken part in the training and festival make up a big family. He added that he is proud to be a part of it.
1. When was the program founded?A.This month. | B.From 1600s | C.From late teens. | D.In 1997. |
A.musicians continue to fight in competitions | B.music makes the world more peaceful |
C.musicians are from different countries | D.the world is not peaceful |
A.flexible. | B.artificial. | C.brilliant. | D.energetic. |
A.Musicians have much in common. | B.A national music program. |
C.Music is a universal language without borders. | D.Music competitions at war. |
【推荐1】With the trans-Tasman travel now in place, many of us are dreaming of afternoons watching sunsets fall over New Zealand’s dramatic mountains and lakes. After a long time of lockdown, it’s an appealing prospect. One great way to see the sights without breaking the bank is to rent a camper(野营车).
“It’s amazing to see the smaller towns and learn about what happens on an orchard(果园)or a farm while staying in my camper, ” says Karen Nisbet, a 38-year-old New Zealander who has spent more than four years on the road.
If you’ve never taken a camper trip before, you might be wondering what it’s like. In New Zealand, you can camp at many places if you have the right vehicle. “To be able to camp better, your vehicle needs to be certified as self-contained, ” says Andy Ford, who runs a business renting campers in Auckland and Christchurch. “That basically means you have a portable toilet, and you’ve got water and food supply on board. ”
“There is something to check before booking, because if you camp outside a campground without the proper certification, you can be fined. Even with a self-contained vehicle, it doesn’t mean you can camp anywhere, ” Mr Ford adds. Many cities and popular tourist destinations like Queenstown often have restrictions, as do areas marked for conservation.
The good news is that it’s easy to find a place to stay. NZ’s Department of Conservation has a website you can use to search for camping sites around the country, or you could use an app.
If you’re camping, it’s important to make sure you deal with your waste properly. Many camp-grounds will have a dump(垃圾场)nearby for convenience, but you may need to plan ahead.
1. What can we know about Karen Nisbet from the text?A.She owns a new camper. | B.She is from a small town. |
C.She always stays in a farm. | D.She likes taking a camper trip. |
A.To run a business renting campers. | B.To have a camper with full facilitie |
C.To buy a portable toilet and water. | D.To spend enough time on the road. |
A.In a mountain area. | B.In Queenstown. |
C.In a conservation area. | D.In the zoo of Auckland. |
A.New Zealanders’ habits of going camping. |
B.The popularity of camping in New Zealand. |
C.Different benefits of travelling in New Zealand. |
D.The points for attention to camping in New Zealand. |
【推荐2】In ancient Greece, festivals were an essential part of their culture. These festivals were celebrated in honor of various gods and goddesses and were a way for people to come together and celebrate their beliefs.
One of the most important festivals in ancient Greece was the Eleusinian Mysteries. This festival was held in honor of Demeter, the goddess of agriculture and fertility (丰产). The Eleusinian Mysteries were a series of rituals (仪式) that celebrated the cycle of life and death. Participants would go through a process that involved fasting (斋戒), purification, and secret rituals.
The Dionysia was another significant festival in ancient Greece. This festival was intended for Dionysus, the god of wine, fertility, and theater. The Dionysia consisted of several days of dinning, drinking wine, and watching plays performed by playwrights such as Sophocles and Euripides.
Festivals were not just about honoring gods; they also served as a way for people to come together as a community. During festivals, people would gather in public spaces to socialize, watch performances or sporting events, or participate in religious ceremonies.
In addition to these major festivals, there were many other smaller festivals throughout ancient Greece that celebrated local traditions or honored specific gods or goddesses. These festivals varied from region to region but all shared the common purpose of bringing people together to celebrate their beliefs.
In conclusion, festivals played an important role in ancient Greek culture as they provided opportunities for people to come together and celebrate their shared culture. These festivals were not just about honoring the gods; they were also a way for people to socialize and participate in community events. The use of festivals as a means of cultural expression is still popular in modern times, and serves as a proof to the enduring treasure of ancient Greece.
1. What’s the function of festivals in Greece?A.Chances for people to know other cultures. |
B.Honor to people’s glorious process of life. |
C.Rewards for people’s devotion to the society. |
D.Religious themes and occasions for gatherings. |
A.To hold a music party. | B.To have a big dinner party. |
C.To honor the rich gift from nature. | D.To put on plays written by famous people. |
A.social contacts | B.people’s show of talents. |
C.volunteer activities | D.choices of the good tradition |
A.The Major Festivals in Greece. | B.Reasons Behind Festivals in Greece. |
C.Activities in Greek Festivals. | D.Changes about Festivals in Greece. |
【推荐3】Great Activities for Nature Lovers
Hiking
One of the easiest and most accessible ways to get close to nature is by setting out on a good old fashioned hike. Hiking generally doesn't require any fancy equipment or special skills, just a piece of map and a thirst for adventure. This activity can be as relaxing as you make it.
Backcountry Camping
Why limit yourself to just a day hike when you can have a full weekend for a longer adventure? Backcountry camping involves packing your tent,sleeping gear ,food, and water on your back to set up camp in a remote location. I you’re an experienced hiker and camper ,this is an excellent way to test your survival skills and explore the wilderness.
Mountain and Road Biking
Unlike long hikes through the woods , biking allows you to cover more ground and travel farther in nature. Mountain biking typically involves riding up and down steep slopes , between trees , and over rocks. If this sounds too intense or your tires aren't suited for rugged terrain( 地形) , consider taking a road bike on paved trails through forest preserves or along country roads.
Gardening
Contrary to popular belief, you don't have to travel beyond your own backyard to experience the beauty of nature every day. If your personality is less adventurous or your mobility restricted, consider planting a garden to grow your own vegetables , fruit , herbs,or flowers. There's something truly satisfying about mixing up a salad with fresh ingredients you grow yourself. One of the best parts about spending time in gardening is that it doesn't have to break your budget and anyone can do it.
1. W hat do hikers need for hiking?A.Practical skills. | B.Necessary equipment. |
C.A useful map. | D.A relaxed mood. |
A.You don't need to go far to enjoy the beauty of nature. |
B.It gives you a sense of satisfaction when cooking with fresh ingredients. |
C.It doesn't take any energy or money to do it. |
D.I’s easy to start it for anyone who likes it. |
A.Hiking. | B.Backcountry Camping. |
C.Mountain and Road Biking. | D.Gardening. |
【推荐1】Famous Artists of the World
Leonardo da Vinci
Famous as: Polymath
Birthdate: April 15, 1452
Nationality: Italian
Died: May 2, 1519
Widely regarded as one of the greatest painters ever, Leonardo da Vinci is an extremely talented polymath. While his work The Mona Lisa became the most famous portrait, his drawing The Vitruvian Man became a cultural icon. A man well ahead of his time, Leonardo is also known for his notes on science and invention.
Vincent van Gogh
Famous as: Painter
Birthdate: March 30, 1853
Nationality: French, Dutch (荷兰人)
Died: July 29, 1890
Vincent van Gogh was a Dutch post-impressionist painter and is said to be one of the most famous and influential figures in the history of Western art. However, he was not commercially successful in his lifetime and killed by himself at 37 after years of mental health issues and poverty. He gained recognition and respect in the 20th century.
Rabindranath Tagore
Famous as: Poet
Birthdate: May 7, 1861
Nationality: Indian
Died: August 7, 1941
Rabindranath Tagore was an Indian polymath who contributed greatly to the fields of literature, art, and philosophy. Referred to as the Bard of Bengal (孟加拉国诗人), Tagore is credited with reshaping Bengali literature and music. The first non-European to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature, Tagore is also credited with composing the national songs of India and Bangladesh.
Michelangelo
Famous as: Sculptor
Birthdate: March 6, 1475
Nationality: Italian
Died: February 18, 1564
Italian sculptor, painter, architect, and poet Michelangelo was an outstanding figure of the High Renaissance. He is credited to have influenced the Western art in unmatched ways. He is widely regarded as the greatest artist of his age and one of the greatest artists of all time. He was equally respected as an architect.
1. Whose works became famous long after his death?A.Michelangelo’s. | B.Vincent van Gogh’s. |
C.Leonardo da Vinci’s. | D.Rabindranath Tagore’s. |
A.A poet. | B.A painter. | C.A composer. | D.A philosopher. |
A.He lived at the same time as Tagore. |
B.He influenced the art of the whole world. |
C.He did as well in sculpture as architecture. |
D.He received the Nobel Prize in Architecture. |
【推荐2】Vincent Van Gogh(30 Mareh 1853~29 July 1890)was a Dutch Post-Impressionist artist. He is considered one of the greatest artists with great influence on 20th century art.
Van Gogh spent his early adult life working for a firm of art dealers. After a brief period as a teacher, he became a missionary(传教士)worker in a very poor mining region. He did not begin his career as an artist until 1880; however during the last ten years of his life, he produced more than 2,000 pieces, including around 900 paintings and 1,100 drawings and sketches(素描).
He worked only with sombre(昏暗的)colours until he met Impressionism and Neo-Impressionism in Paris. Van Gogh incorporated(合并)their bright colours and style of painting into a uniquely recognizable style. Most of his best-known works were produced during his final two years, when he was suffering from serious mental illness.
In 1890, at the age of 37, Van Gogh shot himself in the chest. He died two days later, with Theo, his brother and his best friend, at his side, who reported his last words as “The sadness will last forever”. Theo, unable to come to terms with his brother’s death died 6 months later and was buried next to him. It would not take long before his fame grew higher and higher.
Vincent Van Gogh’s mother threw away quite a number of his paintings during Vincent’s life and even after his death. But she would live long enough to see her son become a world famous painter.
The only painting he sold during his lifetime, The Red Vineyard, was created in 1888. It is now on display in the Pushkin Museum in Moscow, Russia. Several paintings by Van Gogh rank among the most expensive paintings in the world.
On March 30, 1987 Van Gogh’s painting Irises was sold for a record 53.9 million at Southeby’s, New York. On May 15, 1990 his Portrait of Doctor Gachet was sold for $82.5 million at Christie’s, thus establishing a new price record.
1. What’s the right order of Van Gogh’s life experience?a. worked as a teacher
b. took up drawing
c. worked in an art firm
d. worked as a missionary worker
A.c, a, b, d | B.c, a, d, b | C.b, c, a, d | D.b, a, c, d |
A.Sad and boring. | B.Normal and peaceful. |
C.Happy but fruitless. | D.Painful but productive. |
A.Because he was a failure as an artist. |
B.Because he had an unhappy family. |
C.Because he lost his beloved brother. |
D.Because he was suffering from mental illness. |
A.Van Gogh didn’t become famous until he died. |
B.Van Gogh drew and sold many paintings in his life. |
C.Van Gogh achieved great success during his lifetime. |
D.Van Gogh drew most of his paintings between 1888 and 1890. |
【推荐3】A few extraordinary female singer-songwriters from the 1970s helped from music as we know it today, and continue to inspire so many with their soulful melodies (旋律).
Joni Mitchell
Joni Mitchells influence goes beyond her own generation. Her songwriting continues to be a source of inspiration for many, who regard her position as a pioneer of female expression in music.
The 1971 album Blue showed Joni’s truthful self, telling the stories of her experiences in life and in love. Blue was later chosen by the New York Times as one of the 25 albums that represented “turning points and the highest points in 20th-century popular music”.
Carole King
Carole King wrote or co-wrote over 118 hits between 1955 and 1999, making her the most successful female songwriter in the second half of the 20th century. However, King found herself less recognized than her husband and writing partner at the time, Gerry Goffin.
As the 1970s arrived, so did Carole King in full bloom. 1971 saw the release (发行) of her album Tapestry. The album was highly significant not only commercially but symbolically.
Joan Armatrading
Still in the 1970s but putting in the work on this side of the pond, Joan Armatrading became the first black British female artist to achieve international praise. Joan’s place as a female pioneer in music continued as she became the first UK female artist to be nominated (提名) for a Grammy in the blues category, going on to receive two further nominations. An artist who is confident with who she is and what she wants to create, Armatrading famously keeps her private life to herself and lets her music do the talking.
1. What is the album Blue about?A.Female wisdom. | B.Female creativity |
C.Joni’s musical dream. | D.Joni’s life experiences. |
A.In1955. | B.In1999. | C.In1970. | D.In1971. |
A.Brave. | B.Self-confident. | C.Honest. | D.Easy-going. |