Classical Music question: Sonata form

• May 25, 2025 - 14:27

I'm currently writing the 1st mvt. of a sonata and I've hit the end of the development section, but I'm not sure about what's "wrong" and what's "right". If someone is knowledgeable on the topic, I would appreciate any advice. So, the exposition is structured as such: theme A [musical idea 1 - m.i. 2 - m.i. 1'] - theme B. At the development, I begin by developing A[m.i. 1], carry on with influence by theme B and then, come to an end, with a variation of A[m.i. 2]. It can close off pretty awesomely, then medial caesura, theme B, coda and the sonata's wrapped up. But, in this way, the recapitulation only includes theme B and just before that, just a part of theme A is heard varied. Am I allowed to do that with the recapitulation or not?
Note: It's not supposed to be a strictly classical sonata


Comments

took "allowed" a bit too literally and can't blame yall for that. Of course the "conservatory" strict sonata form wouldn't, perhaps, allow that, if it were a compositional exercise. On the other hand, compositions aren't just the implementation of a form, the product of a mold; rather, the form is a guide. Back to what I originally posted though, what I meant is, taking into consideration the sonata form as used throughout its existence and without sticking to unnecessary strict classical rules, would my piece be considered less of a sonata if the recapitulation included only the theme B?

In reply to by papadamantios

I repeat "It's your composition. You do what you want."

If it sounds right to you, it is right. Whether someone else thinks it is a "proper" sonata or not should be immaterial.

As a composer it is difficult to let go of your work and submit it to the judgement of others. But have courage and do what ever you feel is right.

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