Which term refers to the three main sections of Classical Sonata Form?

• A. Coda
• B. Exposition, Development, Recapitulation
• C. Intro, Theme, Finale
• D. Allegro, Adagio, Scherzo

Answer: (B)

In Classical Sonata Form, the structure unfolds through three main sections: Exposition, Development, and Recapitulation. The Exposition presents the primary themes, usually introducing them in the home key and in a contrasting key to establish tonal contrast. The Development takes those themes and explores them in new ways—fragmenting melodies, reharmonizing them, and modulating through several keys to build tension. The Recapitulation returns the main themes in the home key, providing a sense of resolution and unity. A Coda may follow to extend and conclude, but it is not one of the three core sections. The other options refer to a tail section, generic non-form terms, or tempo markings, none of which name the fundamental three-part structure of a sonata.