The initial presentation of a fugue's theme is called the exposition. Which term best matches this concept?

• A. Development
• B. Exposition
• C. Recapitulation
• D. Cadenza

Answer: (B)

In a fugue, the first presentation of the subject by the voices is called the exposition. This opening section establishes the main theme and how it enters in different voices, laying out the tonal plan and the polyphonic texture that defines the piece.

The other terms describe different functions: the development is where material from the subject is transformed and explored in new keys after the exposition; recapitulation is a term from sonata form referring to restating the main material, usually in the home key; a cadenza is a sudden, often virtuosic flourish, typically found near the end of a concerto rather than at the fugue’s opening entry. Therefore, the term that best matches the concept of the initial presentation is exposition.