Baum, Van

02/07/13

TH-241

Rondo Form

Rondo has a French counter part and both are derived from medieval poetic form

Rondeau. Rondeau contains a repetition of couplets separated by longer sections of

poetry and the couplet continues to return. This relates to Rondo Form, which is

most simply described as the repetition of the theme. Typically in ABA form. The

repetition of the theme can often be described as the refrain. Comparing Rondo to

popular music it’s similar to the repletion of the chorus after every verse and also

after the bridge. In Rondo the simple theme often alternates with a more complex

theme and more contrasting themes. Generally these separate themes are called

episodes but can also be referred to as digression or couplets, like in poetry.

Possible Rondo patterns in the Classical Period could be ABA, ABACA, and ABACA.

Sometimes the recurring theme is shortened or varied. Repeats in Rondo form are

often in the same key and redisplay the theme in its entirety. The prequel to the

Rondo was the Ritornello. Ritornello was used in the fast movements of Baroque

concerto. While Rondo is similar to Ritornello it is different in the fact that

Ritornello brings back the theme is fragments and also in different keys. Rondo

brings back the theme in whole and in the same key. It is common to combine

Sonata and Rondo form. There is a form called Sonata Rondo form. It is much

different to the Rondo form in that it can go on for as long as the composer desires

ie. ABACADAE… Like Regular Rondo form is repeats the theme in the tonic key.

Sonata Rondo form is contributed to the Classical era.