ABSTRACT
This chapter describes a study of song forms and its most common types: the 32-bar AABA and the 32-bar ABAC. For each formal paradigm, two tonal variants, on-tonic and off-tonic, are examined. The chapter deals with a discussion of extended and unusual forms. The 32-bar AABA form is the most common formal prototype underlying the repertory of standard tunes. In the overview of this formal model, authors will distinguish between two distinct tonal variants: on-tonic and off-tonic. In addition to the on-tonic model, the AABA off-tonic design is an important formal prototype in standard tunes. In addition to the 32-bar AABA and ABAC forms, there are other, less common formal designs with unusual tonal characteristics, different phrase distributions, and extended structures. Standard tunes with unusual formal designs might present a challenge to the improviser because they typically unfold in a less regular manner and feature more intricate harmonic progressions.
