Which song type is most common in Baroque opera and is characterized by a ternary structure?

The most common song type in Baroque opera characterized by a ternary structure is the de capo aria. This form typically follows an A-B-A pattern where the first section presents a melody and lyrics, followed by a contrasting middle section, and concludes by repeating the initial section. This structure allows for a balance of musical ideas and significant emotional expression, which was a hallmark of Baroque music.

De capo arias often encouraged dramatic expression through the use of embellishments and variations in the repetition of the A section, allowing singers to showcase their virtuosity. This form became a staple in Baroque opera and was widely used by composers of the era to enhance the narrative and emotional depth of the performance.

In contrast, homorhythmic texture refers to a style where all parts sing the same rhythm together, which is more about texture than form. Melisma involves the singing of multiple notes on a single syllable, common in various musical styles but not specific to the ternary structure described in this question. Absolute music pertains to instrumental music without explicit programmatic content, and is not related to the song structures found within opera. Therefore, the de capo aria stands out as the correct answer due to its clear ternary structure and central role in Bar