<P> In rondo form , a principal theme ( sometimes called the `` refrain '' ) alternates with one or more contrasting themes , generally called `` episodes '' , but also occasionally referred to as `` digressions '' or `` couplets '' . Possible patterns in the Classical period include : ABA , ABACA , or ABACABA . These are sometimes designated `` first rondo '' , `` second rondo '' , and `` third rondo '' , respectively . The first rondo is distinguished from the three - part song form principally by the fact that at least one of the themes is a song form in itself , but the difference in melodic and rhythmic content of the themes in the rondo form is usually greater than in the song form , and the accompanimental figuration in the parts of the rondo ( unlike the song form ) is usually contrasted . The number of themes can vary from piece to piece , and the recurring element is sometimes embellished and / or shortened in order to provide for variation . </P>
<P> In rondo form , a principal theme ( sometimes called the `` refrain '' ) alternates with one or more contrasting themes , generally called `` episodes '' , but also occasionally referred to as `` digressions '' or `` couplets '' . Possible patterns in the Classical period include : ABA , ABACA , or ABACABA . These are sometimes designated `` first rondo '' , `` second rondo '' , and `` third rondo '' , respectively . The first rondo is distinguished from the three - part song form principally by the fact that at least one of the themes is a song form in itself , but the difference in melodic and rhythmic content of the themes in the rondo form is usually greater than in the song form , and the accompanimental figuration in the parts of the rondo ( unlike the song form ) is usually contrasted . The number of themes can vary from piece to piece , and the recurring element is sometimes embellished and / or shortened in order to provide for variation . </P>
a b a c a b a is an example of which form from the classic period
a b a c a b a is an example of which form from the classic period
rondo
rondo