Musical Forms
Rondo
Rondo Form is a muscial form in which the first theme is stated and then recurs, usually in the tonic, following statements of contrasting themes. In the Classical sonata cycle, it often appears as the last movement.
Each theme or section of Rondo Form is normally structured in binary form (a b). This form is often maintained when the theme recurs but sometimes only the first part of the theme is stated. The following is a typical diagram for Rondo Form with the recurring theme (A) and 2 contrasting themes (B and C).
A |
B |
A |
C |
A |
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a |
b |
a |
b |
a |
b |
a |
b |
a |
b |
This could be expanded with a return to the first contrasting theme (B), as seen below.
A |
B |
A |
C |
A |
B |
A |
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a |
b |
a |
b |
a |
b |
a |
b |
a |
b |
a |
b |
a |
b |
Any number of contrasting themes may be used as long as it always returns to the recurring theme (A).
The mood or character of a theme or section changes with each contrasting theme. Different melodies with a change of some musical elements assist to create contrast. Examples of contrast would include lyrical/articulated, major/minor, etc.
Example of Rondo Form
Mozart, Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, K. 525 (A little night music), 2nd Movement