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A form built on the alternation of a recurring refrain (A) with contrasting episodes (B, C, etc.). Common pattern: ABACA or ABACABA.
Rondo is the standard finale form — the recurring refrain gives the listener something to anticipate and enjoy, while episodes provide contrast and adventure. The refrain should be memorable and satisfying on each return. Vary it subtly each time — new orchestration, decoration, or register.
Beethoven's "Pathétique" Sonata, third movement (Rondo: Allegro) — the wistful refrain returns between increasingly dramatic episodes.
Rondo 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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