atonality
1
9.9
- noun
- /ˌeɪtəˈnoʊlɪti/
- Specialized
:
atonalidad
- There's some nice atonality and melody progressions going on in the small interlude, and that's easy to appreciate.
- tonality versus atonality
Examples
-
Just as Schoenberg systematized the idea of atonality by inventing 12-tone composition in 1921, so did Cage now develop a compositional method he called "chance operation" that allowed him to explore his own musical ideas in an equally systematic way.
Academic text (2010) -
I say atonality is just a passing phase in jazz music.
-
There is no thought of key or mode, of tonality or atonality.
Academic text (1991) -
In between, "Lux" teases you with gentle atonalities or moments of silence.
Blog text (16) -
Cage stated repeatedly that the evolution of harmony, including the questioning and disintegration it experienced under atonality, was integrally linked to the development of Western commercialism.
Academic text (1997) -
In modern classical music, atonality has become a popular style for composers looking to break traditional rules.
-
The piece featured a striking use of atonality, creating an unconventional and captivating sound that challenged the audience's expectations.
-
During the music class, we discussed the concept of atonality and how it differs from more traditional forms of musical composition.
Synonyms
Music that has no key or main note to guide the harmony
Antonyms
How Tonal
1
6.8
- Specialized
1
9.9
Surface Forms
Morphology
Etymology
Atonality begins with the part a- meaning 'not' and the root tone meaning 'sound' or 'pitch'. So atonality is literally 'not having a tone', and in music it means there is 'no single key or musical center'.