A Cadenza is best described as which of the following?

• A. A section in a large concerto or ensemble work in which the soloist plays without any accompanying instruments, improvised or written out, usually at the end of a movement
• B. A recurring chorus in the symphony
• C. A slow introduction to the movement
• D. A brief transition between movements

Answer: (A)

A cadenza is a virtuosic solo passage for the solo instrument, typically placed near the end of a movement in a concerto, with the orchestra largely silent or providing only light support. It can be improvised or written out, giving the soloist a chance to showcase technical skill and expressive playing before the movement closes. This fits the idea of a free, display-style moment reserved for the soloist, rather than an organized chorus, a slow introductory section, or a brief transition. The other concepts describe different musical functions—repeated vocal-like sections, opening material, or a bridge between movements—none of which capture the solo showcase at the heart of a cadenza.