Atonal: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ถ
atonal
[ หeษชหtoสnษl ]
music theory
Atonal refers to music that lacks a tonal center or key. Unlike traditional Western music, which typically revolves around a specific key or tonal hierarchy, atonal music creates a sense of disorientation and ambiguity. This style often employs a variety of pitches without adhering to conventional scales or chords. Atonality emerged in the early 20th century as composers sought new modes of expression, breaking away from established norms. It can evoke a wide range of emotions, often reflecting the complexity and chaos of modern life.
Synonyms
disharmonious, dissonant, non-tonal
Examples of usage
- The composer experimented with atonal techniques.
- Many modern pieces are atonal and transcend traditional boundaries.
- Atonal music can challenge listeners' perceptions of harmony.
Translations
Translations of the word "atonal" in other languages:
๐ต๐น atonal
๐ฎ๐ณ เค เคเฅเคจเคฒ
๐ฉ๐ช atonal
๐ฎ๐ฉ atonal
๐บ๐ฆ ะฐัะพะฝะฐะปัะฝะธะน
๐ต๐ฑ atonalny
๐ฏ๐ต ็ก่ชฟใฎ
๐ซ๐ท atonal
๐ช๐ธ atonal
๐น๐ท atonal
๐ฐ๐ท ๋ฌด์กฐ์
๐ธ๐ฆ ุบูุฑ ูุบู ู
๐จ๐ฟ atonรกlnรญ
๐ธ๐ฐ atonรกlny
๐จ๐ณ ๆ ่ฐ็
๐ธ๐ฎ atonalen
๐ฎ๐ธ atรณnal
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะฐัะพะฝะฐะปะดั
๐ฌ๐ช แแขแแแแแฃแ แ
๐ฆ๐ฟ atonal
๐ฒ๐ฝ atonal
Etymology
The term 'atonal' was first introduced in the early 20th century, primarily associated with the works of composers such as Arnold Schoenberg and Anton Webern. The prefix 'a-' signifies 'without,' while 'tonal' pertains to tone or key. The concept arose during a revolutionary time in music history, reflecting broader changes in art and society. As the Romantic era's emphasis on emotional expression gave way to new avant-garde movements, musicians began to explore the boundaries of sound. Schoenberg's development of the twelve-tone technique epitomized atonality, marking a departure from traditional harmonic frameworks. This shift not only impacted music but also influenced various art forms, generating discussions about the role of dissonance and structure. Today, atonality continues to be a significant point of reference in contemporary classical music and is studied by musicians and theorists alike.
Word Frequency Rank
This word's position of #34,594 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.
- ...
- 34591 orbited
- 34592 blent
- 34593 harpist
- 34594 atonal
- 34595 sensuously
- 34596 conjecturing
- 34597 prejudged
- ...