Entry Exam Category: College Admission Exams
Course: Accuplacer
Exam: Accuplacer Reading Sample Questions Practice Test
Practice Question
Extract
Read the passage(s) below and answer the question based on what is stated or implied in the passage(s) and in any introductory material that may be provided.
Passage
Many professional musicians receive conservatory training in order to become well-grounded in formal theory and instrumental technique; however, when we approach jazz we are entering quite a different sphere of training. Here it is more meaningful to speak of apprenticeship, ordeals, initiation ceremonies, and rebirth. For after the jazz musician has learned the fundamentals of an instrument and the standard techniques of jazz, such as intonations and traditional styles, the musician must then find his or her soul. All this through achieving that subtle identification between the instrument and the musician's deepest drives, which will allow for the expression of each artist's distinctive
Passage
Many professional musicians receive conservatory training in order to become well-grounded in formal theory and instrumental technique; however, when we approach jazz we are entering quite a different sphere of training. Here it is more meaningful to speak of apprenticeship, ordeals, initiation ceremonies, and rebirth. For after the jazz musician has learned the fundamentals of an instrument and the standard techniques of jazz, such as intonations and traditional styles, the musician must then find his or her soul. All this through achieving that subtle identification between the instrument and the musician's deepest drives, which will allow for the expression of each artist's distinctive
The last sentence of the passage primarily emphasizes which point about jazz?
Answer Choices
- A: Jazz is hard to define and varies greatly among performers.
- B: Years of training are needed to hone a jazz musician's skills.
- C: Jazz performances are comparable to paintings and sculptures.
- D: Playing jazz is a highly personal and creative activity.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The last sentence focuses on the personal connection between the musician and their instrument, highlighting the creative expression unique to each artist.