1. In the Classical period and beyond
Sonata Form
In the Classical period
and beyond

2. Sonata Form Most often the form of the 1st movement of a
Symphony - orchestral composition, usually in 4 movements
Sonata (genre) - instrumental composition, usually in 4 movements for 1 or 2 players
Concerto - extended composition for instrumental soloist and orchestra, usually in 3 movements

3. Musical Examples
LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN - Mvt . 1 from Symphony No. 5 in C minor
WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART - Mvt. 1 from Symphony No. 40 in G minor (Assignment #6)
WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART - Mvt. 1 from Piano Concerto No. 23 in A Major
ANTONIN DVORAK - Mvt. 1 Symphony No. 9 in E Minor (“From the New World”)

4. Sonata Form Form of a single movement, consisting of 3 main sections
The EXPOSITION
Where the themes are presented
The DEVELOPMENT
Where the themes are treated in new ways
The RECAPITULATION
Where the themes return

5. Exposition Features 2 contrasting themes 1st theme (in home key)
Bolder
Stronger rhythmic shape
More motive-based
More “aggressive”
2nd theme (in different key)
More Lyrical
Emphasis on melodic line
More melody/phrase-based
More calm and refined

6. Exposition 1st theme (or group) in home key BRIDGE (modulation) to
BRIDGE - in the exposition of the sonata form, a section which leads from the first theme in the tonic, or home, key to the second theme, which is in a new key
2nd theme (or group) in different key
CLOSING MATERIAL or Cadence in the different key

7. Development Thematic material is ‘developed’ or ‘varied’ by
Fragmentation
Recombination
Reorchestration
Melodic extenision
Unstable harmonies (moves through many keys) - frequent modulations
Chromaticism
Counterpoint (often imitative polyphony)

8. Recapitulation 1st theme (or group) in home key BRIDGE (modulation) to
2nd theme (or group) in HOME KEY !!!
CLOSING MATERIAL or Cadence in the HOME KEY

10. Sonata Form in a CONCERTO
Form of a single movement, consisting of 4 main sections
The 1st EXPOSITION (orchestra tutti)
Where the themes are presented by orchestra
The 2nd EXPOSITION (soloist)
Repeat of exposition where themes are presented by soloist
The DEVELOPMENT
Where the themes are treated in new ways
The RECAPITULATION
Where the themes return