@Glossary@1 @Theme:@2 A theme is a musical idea which takes the form of a melody consisting of a beginning, a central passage, and an ending. It forms the starting point of a composition. In the Sonata form, for instance, there are usually two or more contrasted themes. It is from these themes that the composer usually derives the Motives which he intends to develop. _______________________________________________________________________________ The Musical Instruments of the Symphonic Orchestra Copyright ©1993-1994 by Plastronics Ltd. and InterActive Publishing Corporation