Moonlight Melodies Trivia Quiz

"Der Mond ist aufgegangen" ("The Moon Has Risen") is a well-known German evening hymn written by Matthias Claudius in 1779. The melody, composed by Johann Abraham Peter Schulz, is often sung at night and is appreciated for its serene and contemplative qualities.

The lyrics describe the tranquillity of the night, the rising moon and the sense of peace it brings, making it an integral part of German culture and worship.

"Moonlight Sonata" (Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp minor "Quasi una fantasia", Op. 27, No. 2) is one of Ludwig van Beethoven's most famous compositions, written in 1801. The piece is in three movements, of which the first, Adagio sostenuto, is the most iconic.

Its hauntingly beautiful melody evokes the quiet, contemplative atmosphere of a moonlit night. Beethoven dedicated the sonata to his student, Countess Giulietta Guicciardi.

"Clair de Lune", which means "Light of the Moon", is the third movement of the Suite Bergamasque, a piano suite that Claude Debussy began composing in 1890 and published in 1905. Inspired by the poem "Clair de Lune" by Paul Verlaine, the piece is known for its lyrical, impressionistic quality, capturing the serene beauty of moonlight.

It remains one of Debussy's most popular and frequently performed works.

"Moonlight Bay" is a popular American song written in 1912 by Percy Wenrich with lyrics by Edward Madden. The song describes a romantic evening on the water by moonlight. Its nostalgic and melodic appeal has made it a popular standard, often performed by barbershop quartets and featured in various films and TV shows, including a memorable performance by Doris Day.

"Moonlight Serenade" is a classic of the swing era, composed by Glenn Miller in 1939. This instrumental jazz piece, with its smooth, flowing melody and orchestration, became an instant hit and is synonymous with the big band sound of the 1940s. The serene and romantic atmosphere it evokes has made it a timeless favourite, often associated with the nostalgia of the pre-war era.

"Havana Moon" is a song by Chuck Berry released in 1956. The song is a distinctive blend of rock and roll with Latin influences, characterised by rhythmic guitar strumming and evocative lyrics. The song tells the story of a Cuban man waiting for a boat to bring his beloved from America, only to be disappointed when she doesn't arrive. Berry's storytelling, combined with the song's unique sound, made "Havana Moon" a standout track.

"Moon River", composed by Henry Mancini with lyrics by Johnny Mercer, was written for the 1961 film "Breakfast at Tiffany's", where it was performed by Audrey Hepburn. The song won the Academy Award for Best Original Song and became an instant classic.

Its gentle melody and poetic lyrics capture the longing and dreams of the protagonist, making it a popular standard covered by numerous artists.

"Bad Moon Rising" is a rock song by Creedence Clearwater Revival, written by John Fogerty and released in 1969. The song features an upbeat, catchy melody with lyrics that ominously warn of impending trouble, symbolised by the rising moon. Despite its upbeat melody, the song's foreboding message resonated with audiences, making it one of the band's most enduring hits.

"Moonage Daydream" is a glam rock song by David Bowie, originally released in 1971 and later included in his 1972 album "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars". The song highlights Bowie's imaginative lyrics and distinctive style, blending rock with futuristic themes.

It became an iconic track, representing the flamboyant and experimental spirit of Bowie's Ziggy Stardust persona.

"Walking on the Moon" is a song by The Police, written by lead singer and bassist Sting. Released in 1979 on their album "Reggatta de Blanc", the song features a reggae-influenced rhythm and dreamy lyrics that describe the feeling of elation and weightlessness, akin to walking on the moon.

It became one of the band's signature hits, celebrated for its innovative sound and lyrical imagery.