Atonally Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ต
atonally
[ษหtoสnษli ]
Definition
music theory
Atonally refers to a style of music that lacks a tonal center or key. This approach avoids traditional harmonic structures, breaking away from the conventions established in Western musical traditions. Composers working in an atonal style often emphasize dissonance and non-harmonic relationships between notes, creating complex textures and soundscapes. Atonality emerged as a significant movement during the early 20th century, particularly associated with composers like Arnold Schoenberg.
Examples of usage
- The symphony was composed atonally, challenging listeners' expectations.
- Many modern composers experiment with atonally structured pieces.
- The atonally arranged melodies created an unsettling atmosphere.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Music Theory
- Atonal music often lacks a tonal center, making it more challenging to predict what sounds might come next.
- It is characterized by free atonality, where composers like Arnold Schoenberg created music without traditional harmonies.
- Atonal pieces often evoke a range of emotions, as they donโt conform to typical musical patterns.
Cultural Impact
- The arrival of atonal music marked a significant shift in the modernist movement of the 20th century.
- Art movements, such as Dadaism, paralleled the emergence of atonal music by rejecting traditional aesthetics in favor of chaos.
- Stiftsgรฅrden in Norway hosted an innovative music festival focusing on atonal compositions, showcasing its growing cultural acceptance.
Psychology of Music
- Research suggests that atonal music may evoke more complex emotional responses compared to tonal music.
- Listeners can often find atonal music unsettling, which can stimulate deeper thinking about the music's structure and meaning.
- Some studies indicate that atonal music can enhance concentration, particularly during tasks requiring high focus.
Notable Composers
- Arnold Schoenberg is often regarded as the pioneer of atonal music, breaking away from traditional tonal systems.
- Alban Berg and Anton Webern are also key figures in the Second Viennese School, known for their contributions to atonal compositions.
- John Cage, while not strictly atonal, explored similar ideas by emphasizing sound over traditional musicality.
Origin of 'atonally'
Main points about word origin
- The word combines 'a-' meaning 'without' and 'tonal' which refers to tones or musical notes.
- First used in the early 20th century when composers began to explore new musical forms.
- The prefix 'a-' is derived from Greek, indicating absence or negation.
The term 'atonally' is derived from the root 'atonal,' which combines the prefix 'a-' meaning 'without' and 'tonal,' relating to tone or key in music. The concept gained prominence in the early 20th century amid the evolution of modern music, particularly through the works of composers such as Arnold Schoenberg, Alban Berg, and Anton Webern. These artists collectively pushed the boundaries of musical composition, moving away from the structured tonality that had dominated Western art music for centuries. Atonal music seeks to free compositions from the restraints of established tonal hierarchies, allowing for greater creative expression.