Atonality Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ถ
atonality
[ษหtoสnษlษชti ]
Definition
music theory
Atonality is a characteristic of music that lacks a tonal center or key. This means the music does not revolve around a central note as is typical in tonal music. Instead, atonal music is often marked by the equal treatment of all pitches, leading to a more dissonant sound.
Synonyms
dissonance, non-tonality.
Examples of usage
- The composer experimented with atonality in his latest work.
- Atonality challenges traditional notions of harmony.
- Many 20th-century composers embraced atonality in their music.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Influential Composers
- Arnold Schoenberg is the most famous figure associated with atonality, developing it as part of his revolutionary approach to composition.
- Along with Alban Berg and Anton Webern, Schoenberg formed the Second Viennese School, which was pivotal for atonal music.
Cultural Impact
- Atonality has influenced various art movements, reflecting modern lifeโs complexities and dissonances.
- In cinema, atonal music is often used in horror films to create a sense of tension and unease.
Psychology of Sound
- Research suggests that atonal music can evoke a wide range of emotional responses, often more intense than tonal music.
- Listeners may find atonal music challenging, as it does not adhere to traditional expectations of harmony and melody.
Modern Genres
- Elements of atonality have been incorporated into genres like avant-garde jazz, which often explores free improvisation.
- Many contemporary classical composers continue to experiment with atonality, pushing the boundaries of musical expression.
Origin of 'atonality'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'atonality' comes from the prefix 'a-' meaning 'without,' and 'tonality,' which refers to a key or tone in music.
- It was first used in the early 20th century to describe music that broke away from traditional harmonic frameworks.
The term 'atonality' was coined in the early 20th century, primarily associated with the rise of modernist music compositions that rejected traditional tonal frameworks. Its historical roots can be traced back to innovations in European classical music, particularly through the works of composers like Arnold Schoenberg and his followers, who sought to explore new harmonic structures that did not rely on established tonal relationships. This movement emerged as a reaction against the constraints of previous musical styles, marking a significant shift in the evolution of Western music. The prefix 'a-' means 'without,' paired with 'tonality,' which refers to the system of tones in music. Thus, 'atonality' literally means 'without tonality.' Over the decades, atonality has influenced a range of musical genres and continues to be a point of discussion in music theory.