Ⅰ.阅读理解
A
Every music therapist has a wealth of stories about that beautiful musical moment when art and science come together to create an awareness,an accomplishment,a breakthrough.I want to share highlights of music therapy,which helped my family find outlets and insights through our “extremely painful journey”.
My father,Joe Altman lived his life with strength and determination.As complications associated with diabetes diminished his physical capabilities,his unbeatable will to fight the disease completely hammered away.A WWⅡ Navy Seal,Joe Altman lived by a simple rule:when you get to the end of your rope,tie a knot(结) and hang on.
When dementia struck hard and violently broke through Dad’s spirit,music therapist Alessandro Ricciarelli entered his life.Armed with six strings attached to a wooden guitar,Alessandro surpassed(超过) the capabilities of the most advanced medical technology.
Each time Alessandro walked through the door,an invisible wall formed around them,creating a comfortable space in which a trusting bond of friendship would quickly form.Alessandro brought with him happiness,encouragement,added a sense of meaning and purpose to Dad’s life,and,in doing so revived(使复原) his spirit.In a most gentle way,Alessandro treated Joe with the greatest dignity and respect.
Alessandro’s action was not limited to actual hospital visits;he took personal time to learn songs that were relevant to Dad and made recordings of their sessions together to be enjoyed at any given time.Alessandro appreciated the power of positive thoughts,and with his kind words,a smile,compassion,and a true desire to make Dad happy,he encouraged Dad’s participation,leaving us with cherished memories of my father having one last chance to express himself through music,smiling and enjoying life.
In a very real sense,Alessandro was that knot at the end of the rope on to which Dad grabbed.I am forever grateful to the Music Therapy Programme at NYU Medical Centre,more specifically,to Mr.Alessandro Ricciarelli.
1.What does the underlined word “diminished” in paragraph 2 probably mean?
A.Improved. B.Replaced.
C.Weakened. D.Developed.
2.What can be known about the author’s father?
A.He used to serve in the army.
B.He lived a very easy life.
C.He was a superman in physical strength.
D.He was good at music when young.
3.What kind of person does the author consider Alessandro to be?
A.Courageous. B.Strong-willed.
C.Open-minded. D.Devoted.
4.What is the author’s purpose in writing the text?
A.To express gratitude to a music therapist.
B.To call on people to treat patients kindly.
C.To discuss ways of improving musical skills.
D.To warn readers against developing illness.
