What is a 'codetta' in music?

A 'codetta' is a brief section that serves as a conclusion or ending to a movement or a piece of music, typically following the main thematic material. It is derived from the Italian term meaning "little tail," indicating that it wraps up the musical ideas presented earlier. Codettas can help provide resolution to the music by reinforcing key themes or motifs, or by signaling the end of a larger section, such as in sonata form.

While other terms might describe different aspects of music, a codetta’s primary role is to provide a succinct finish. In contrast, an introduction sets up the music to come, variations modify themes, and a continuous broken chord is more about the texture of accompaniment rather than an ending structure. Thus, recognizing the function of a codetta as a concise concluding section helps clarify its role within larger musical forms.