Question #N90

The following excerpt is from a historical essay about the development of the modern symphony orchestra: "The symphony orchestra as we know it today is a relatively recent invention. It is a direct descendent of the court orchestras of the Baroque era, in which musicians performed for the entertainment of nobles and royalty. However, the modern symphony orchestra is far more complex and sophisticated than its Baroque predecessors. The modern orchestra is a vast ensemble of musicians, each playing a specialized instrument, and the repertoire of the modern orchestra is far broader and more varied than that of the Baroque era. The modern symphony orchestra has become a major cultural institution, and its music is enjoyed by millions of people around the world."

What is the main idea of this passage?
A. The symphony orchestra has evolved significantly since the Baroque era.
B. The symphony orchestra is a major cultural institution.
C. The modern symphony orchestra is more complex than the Baroque orchestra.
D. The symphony orchestra was originally intended for the entertainment of nobles and royalty.

Correct Answer is: A

The passage emphasizes the evolution of the symphony orchestra from its Baroque origins to its modern form. It highlights the increased complexity, sophistication, and range of the modern orchestra, contrasting it with the Baroque era. The passage emphasizes that the modern symphony orchestra is a different and more developed entity than its predecessors. Therefore, the main idea of the passage is that the symphony orchestra has evolved significantly since the Baroque era.