On The Beginnings Of The Classical Sonata Form

This paper on the beginnings of the classical sonata form covers a period from 1700 to 1780. It comprises two parts.Part one discusses the evolution of the tonal and structure plan of the classical sonata form from the early binary and ternary forms, and the development of the 18^th-century sonata style in arias and solo concertos.Part two carries on a further study of the form in symphonies and solo sonatas as well as works of major composers and the historical contribution of each to the development of the form.The writer comes to the following conclusions:1. Synthesis of structure of sonata form and classical style is characteristic of classical sonata form.2. The rise of classical sonata form is estimated at 1770's.3. Classical sonata form has its root not only in binary sonata form, but in pre-sonata form as well.4. Pre-sonata form is mainly the predecessor of classical sonata form in symphonies while baroque sonata form that of solo sonatas.5. The tonic-dominant tonal area in the exposition of sonata form shows an influence of ritornelle.6. There exists a period of mutual influence between classical sonata form and concerto form.7. Non-development sonata form originated from opera aria.