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From the beginning — return to the start and play again until the "fine" marking. Abbreviated D.C.
Da capo creates ternary form by directing the performers back to the beginning after a contrasting section. In Baroque arias, the da capo return was ornamented by the singer. When writing a da capo, ensure the return makes musical sense — the contrast should make the return feel satisfying, not redundant.
Handel's "Messiah" — many arias use da capo form, with the singer ornamenting the return of the A section.
Da capo is one of 228 terms in the Gradus musical dictionary, where every definition is written around how composers actually use the word.
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