atonalism

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Word: Atonalism

Definition: Atonalism is a noun that refers to a style of music that does not have a key or tonal center. In other words, it is music that does not follow the traditional rules of melody and harmony found in most Western music, which usually revolves around a specific key. Instead, atonal music uses a variety of notes without focusing on a single "home" note.

Usage Instructions:

• Atonalism is primarily used in the context of music and music theory. It is often discussed when talking about modern or contemporary music styles.
• You can use the word "atonal" as an adjective to describe music that has these characteristics.

Example Sentence:

• "The composer’s latest piece is an example of atonalism, as it lacks a clear tonal center and uses dissonant sounds throughout."

Advanced Usage:

• Atonalism is often associated with certain 20th-century composers, such as Arnold Schoenberg, who explored this musical style.
• It can also relate to the broader concepts of modernism in art and literature, where traditional forms are challenged.

Word Variants:

• Atonal (adjective): Describing music that does not have a key.
  • Example: "The atonal piece was challenging for many listeners."
• Atonality (noun): The state of being atonal.
  • Example: "Atonality can be difficult to appreciate for those used to tonal music."

Different Meaning:

While "atonalism" specifically refers to music, the prefix "a-" means "without" or "lack of," and it can be used in other contexts. For example: - "Amoral" means without morals. - "Atypical" means not typical or unusual.

Synonyms:

• Non-tonal music
• Dissonant music

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "atonalism," but you might hear phrases like "out of tune" in a broader sense, which conveys a lack of harmony.

Summary:

Atonalism is an important concept in modern music, representing a break from traditional tonal music.

Academic

Noun

1. the absence of a key; alternative to the diatonic system

Synonyms

• atonality