How Do You Spell MODAL ALTERATION?

Pronunciation: [mˈə͡ʊdə͡l ˌɒltəɹˈe͡ɪʃən] (IPA)

Modal alteration is a term used in music theory to describe the changing of a mode within a piece of music. The spelling of "modal alteration" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription as /ˈmoʊdəl ˌæltərˈeɪʃən/. The word begins with the stressed vowel sound /oʊ/ followed by the unstressed vowel sound /ə/ and the consonant sound /d/. The second part of the word contains the stressed vowel sound /æ/, the consonants /l/, /t/, and /r/, and the unstressed vowel sound /eɪ/.

MODAL ALTERATION Meaning and Definition

  1. Modal alteration refers to a concept in music theory that involves modifying or deviating from the established tonal framework of a musical composition. It is a technique used to introduce new tonal colors, harmonic progressions, or melodic variations that differ from the primary or original mode being utilized.

    In modal music, a mode refers to a specific arrangement of tones and semitones that forms the basis of a musical scale. Alteration, on the other hand, implies a modification or adjustment made to this mode. Modal alteration can occur by employing accidentals, which are notes that are not part of the original mode, to create a temporary change in tonality. This deviation may be used to evoke a different emotional or expressive quality, provide contrast, or add complexity to the composition.

    Modal alteration can manifest in various ways, including the introduction of chromaticism, modulation to a different mode, or the use of borrowed chords or scales from related modes. For example, altering a modal scale by temporarily sharpening or flattening specific tones can create contrasting tonalities and harmonic tensions.

    Modal alteration is a technique commonly used in various musical genres, including jazz, classical, and folk. It allows composers and performers to explore different tonal possibilities and create musical developments that enhance the overall composition. Through modal alteration, musicians can create unique and distinct musical atmospheres, conveying a range of emotions and producing exquisite sonic palettes.

  2. In electric irritability, a change in the mode of response of degenerated muscle to galvanic and faradic currents, the contraction being sluggish instead of quick.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for MODAL ALTERATION

  • nodal alteration
  • kodal alteration
  • jodal alteration
  • midal alteration
  • mkdal alteration
  • mldal alteration
  • mpdal alteration
  • m0dal alteration
  • m9dal alteration
  • mosal alteration
  • moxal alteration
  • mocal alteration
  • mofal alteration
  • moral alteration
  • moeal alteration
  • modzl alteration
  • modsl alteration
  • modwl alteration
  • modql alteration
  • modak alteration

Etymology of MODAL ALTERATION

The word "modal" comes from the Old French word "modal" and the Latin word "modus", which means "measure, manner, or mode". "Modal" is related to the modern English word "mode".

The word "alteration" comes from the Latin word "alteratio", which is derived from the verb "alterare", meaning "to change or alter".

Together, "modal alteration" refers to a change or alteration in the mode or manner of something. It is often used in the context of music theory, where it denotes a change in the tonality or mode of a musical piece.