The *sentence* is one of several [[conventional theme types]] in the Classical style. Prototypical sentences are 8 measures in length and divided into a 4-measure [[presentation]] and 4-measure [[continuation]]. The presentation features a 2-measure basic idea, which is immediately repeated. There are three basic types of b.i. repetition: exact, statement-response, and sequential. Following the presentation, the continuation proceeds with fragmentation of the 2-measure basic idea before culminating in a cadential idea. ![[example prototypical sentence.png]] **Example 1.** Prototypical sentence: Beethoven, Piano Sonata in F minor, op. 2 no. 1/i, mm. 1–8. ([Listen](https://youtu.be/u85AkAOyX_A?si=xPgtwB_8HIXTqi59))