Three-part form with an initial statement, a contrasting section, and a return is known as what?

• A. Rondo
• B. Binary form
• C. Ternary form
• D. Sonata form

Answer: (C)

This item tests ternary form, an ABA structure. In ternary form, music presents an opening material (A), then moves to a contrasting middle section (B), and finally returns to the original material (A). The return of the opening idea after the contrasting section creates a sense of balance and closure.

This pattern matches the description of an initial statement, a contrasting section, and a return. A rondo centers on recurring material across multiple episodes, not a simple three-part return. Binary form has two sections with no deliberate restatement of the opening material. Sonata form involves exposition, development, and recapitulation in a more complex architecture, not just an ABA return.