This is the largest form that we study in Eighth Grade:
Sonata Allegro – a large musical form consisting of three major divisions: the exposition, in which themes (usually two) and important key (again, usually two) are presented; the development, in which the themes are treated in various ways and different keys are explored; the recapitulation, a restatement of the exposition with some modifications, mainly in the use of keys. A coda may be added.
Exposition – the first section of a composition, in which the subject, or thematic material is introduced.
Development – the middle section of the sonata form, in which the themes of the exposition are developed and expanded.
Recapitulation – the third section of the sonata form, in which the themes are restated and the entire movement is brought to a close.
Codetta – a very short section added at the close of the exposition in Sonata-Allegro form. A very short coda, or ending.
12/11/2002