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Is Sonata Form Binary or Ternary?

Asked ChatGPT4o: “Sonata form consists of three sections. Shouldnʼt complex binary form, which also consists of three sections like sonata form, be considered ternary rather than binary?”

Considering that sonata form consists of three sections (exposition, development, and recapitulation), interpreting complex binary form as having three parts can be helpful for deeper understanding, especially when its structure resembles that of sonata form. Based on this idea, complex binary form can be reinterpreted in a manner similar to sonata form.

Reinterpreting Binary Form

In complex binary form, if the B section includes a return of the A material, it can be understood as follows:

1. Section A (Exposition):
• Introduction of the main theme or primary material.
• Typically starts in the tonic key and modulates to the dominant or another key.
2. First Half of Section B (Development):
• Development and elaboration of the themes or material presented in Section A.
• Frequent modulations to different keys.
3. Second Half of Section B (Recapitulation):
• The return of themes or material, usually back in the tonic key.

Comparison with Sonata Form Structure

Sonata form is clearly divided into the following three sections:

1. Exposition:
• Introduction of themes, usually with two contrasting themes presented in different keys (first and second themes).
• Starts in the tonic and modulates to the dominant or another key.
2. Development:
• Elaboration and exploration of themes, with frequent modulations and variations.
3. Recapitulation:
• The themes from the exposition return, but everything is restated in the tonic key.

Transition from Complex Binary Form to Sonata Form

The transition from complex binary form to sonata form involves the following key points:

• Structure of Section B: In complex binary form, the B section may serve both developmental and recapitulatory functions. Therefore, it can be divided into two subsections: development and recapitulation.
• Importance of Recapitulation: While sonata form explicitly returns to the tonic key in the recapitulation, the return of themes in complex binary form also plays a crucial role in maintaining structural cohesion.

Conclusion

Therefore, when analyzing complex binary form, it is beneficial to interpret it as having three sections, similar to sonata form. This approach clarifies the internal structure of complex binary form and helps to naturally understand its evolution toward sonata form. Complex binary form serves an important transitional role between simple binary form and fully developed sonata form.

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