This volume provides a full and careful history of what sonata meant and how the word was used from its first appearance as an instrumental title in the sixteenth century to the near end of the thorough-bass practice around 1750. The revised edition includes nearly three hundred new studies, editions, and other pertinent information. Originally published in 1966. A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.