Exposition

Definition

This describes the first hearing of the 'theme' and is normally associated with compositions structured in sonata form or fugue. Typically the first movement of a Sonata has the following structure - exposition, development and recapitulation. In a fugue, exposition is used to identify the first playing of the theme or 'subject' by each voice.

Examples

Explanation of the exposition section of Sonata form.

Related concepts

• Sonata form (H)
• Fugue (AH)