What describes the recapitulation in the Classical Sonata Form?

• A. Resolved tension
• B. Introduction of a new subject in the dominant key
• C. Expanded development of material
• D. A variation form with theme and variations

Answer: (A)

Recapitulation in Classical Sonata Form is the moment when the main themes from the exposition return in the home key, providing a sense of resolution. After the development wanders through different keys and textures, the recapitulation restates the primary material in the tonic, so harmonic tension from the earlier modulation is settled back to stability. This return to the home key and the restatement of the principal themes establish closure and prepare the listener for the final cadence or coda. It’s not about introducing a new subject in a new key or expanding the developmental material, and it isn’t a variation-form structure.