Primarily a harmonic progression—a "ground bass" or repeating chord sequence—rather than a single fixed melody.
Arcangelo Corelli’s Violin Sonata Op. 5, No. 12 (1700) is the most famous Baroque example, setting the standard for the form. Follia
Antonio Vivaldi, Marin Marais, Jean-Baptiste Lully, and Alessandro Scarlatti all wrote famous variations. Enduring Legacy 12 (1700) is the most famous Baroque example,
Early Folia (faster, 15th-16th century) and Late Folia (slower, 17th-18th century, popular in the Baroque era). Musical Characteristics 15th-16th century) and Late Folia (slower
The most iconic "Late Folia" structure is a 16-bar sequence typically in d-minor: Often follows a
An improvisation on a 500 year old chord progression. La Folia!
It is the ultimate "theme and variations" form; over 150 composers have written their own interpretations, using the strict chordal framework to showcase improvisational skill.