How Do You Spell ATONALITY?

Pronunciation: [e͡ɪtə͡ʊnˈalɪti] (IPA)

Atonality is a term used in music to describe a compositional technique that avoids traditional harmonic and melodic structures. The word is spelled with four syllables: "A-to-na-li-ty". The IPA phonetic transcription for this would be: /eɪ.təʊ.'næ.lə.ti/. The first syllable is pronounced "ay," the second syllable is "tow," the third syllable is "na," and the final syllable is "li-ty." While the word may seem complicated, its spelling is straightforward when broken down into each sound.

ATONALITY Meaning and Definition

1. Atonality is a musical concept that refers to the absence or rejection of a tonal center, which is characterized by the absence of a traditional sense of tonality or key in a composition. It is a radical departure from the tradition of tonal music that dominated Western classical music for centuries. Atonal music does not adhere to the established rules of tonal harmony, chord progressions, or the functional relationships between notes.

   In atonal compositions, no single pitch or chord functions as the center of gravity or grounds the harmonic structure. Instead, atonal music is characterized by the organization of pitches and intervals based on principles other than tonal relationships, such as melodic or rhythmic patterns, pitch class sets, or serialism. This approach allows for greater freedom of expression and experimentation with different tonal combinations and dissonance.

   Atonality emerged in the early 20th century as a reaction against the hierarchical structure of tonal music, challenging conventional notions of melody and harmony. Composers like Arnold Schoenberg, Anton Webern, and Alban Berg pioneered the atonal movement, seeking to explore new avenues of musical expression and transcend the limitations imposed by tonality.

   However, atonality remains a divisive concept, often challenging listeners' traditional expectations and generating controversy within the musical community. While some embrace its perceived liberation and potential for innovation, others criticize it for its lack of tonal coherence and emotional connection. Nonetheless, atonality continues to be a prominent feature of contemporary classical and avant-garde music, expanding the boundaries of musical language and pushing the boundaries of creativity.

Common Misspellings for ATONALITY

• natonality
• natinality
• tonallity
• atonlity
• ratonality

Etymology of ATONALITY

The word "atonality" was coined by Austrian composer Arnold Schoenberg in the early 20th century. It is derived from the prefix "a-" meaning "without" or "not", and the noun "tonality", which refers to the system of organizing musical pitch and relationships in traditional tonal music. Schoenberg used the term to describe his compositional approach that deliberately avoided traditional tonal centers and functional harmonies. Thus, atonality indicates the absence or negation of tonality in music.

Similar spelling words for ATONALITY

• atonal,
• atonally,
• atonalism,
• atonalistic.

Plural form of ATONALITY is ATONALITIES