rondo
French era
Definition
A musical form in which a recurring refrain (the rondo theme) alternates with contrasting episodes (couplets). In the Classical piano sonata, the rondo typically serves as the final movement, combining brilliant passagework with lyrical contrast. Woelfl's final movements frequently use rondo form.
Interpretive Guidance
Return passages of the refrain should feel fresh each time, even if slightly varied. Contrast episodes more in character than in tempo. Allow the forward momentum of the form to carry the listener toward the final return.