A Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra was composed by which composer?

A Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra was composed by which composer?

• A. Holst
• B. Purcell
• C. Vaughan Williams
• D. Britten

Answer: (D)

This question tests recognizing who authored a well-known educational orchestral piece. The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra is a 1945 work by Benjamin Britten designed to introduce listeners to the different sections of the orchestra. Although it uses a theme from Henry Purcell’s Abdelazer, Britten wrote the variations and the overall orchestral demonstrations, making him the composer credited with the piece itself. Holst is famous for The Planets, Purcell provided the theme but did not compose the complete work, and Vaughan Williams wrote other distinct pieces. The important point is that Britten is the creator of the finished work you hear and study.

This question tests recognizing who authored a well-known educational orchestral piece. The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra is a 1945 work by Benjamin Britten designed to introduce listeners to the different sections of the orchestra. Although it uses a theme from Henry Purcell’s Abdelazer, Britten wrote the variations and the overall orchestral demonstrations, making him the composer credited with the piece itself. Holst is famous for The Planets, Purcell provided the theme but did not compose the complete work, and Vaughan Williams wrote other distinct pieces. The important point is that Britten is the creator of the finished work you hear and study.