Atonalism (Noun)
Meaning
The absence of a key; alternative to the diatonic system.
Classification
Nouns denoting communicative processes and contents.
Examples
- Atonalism, which rejects the concept of a central key, allows for greater experimentation and freedom in composition.
- The development of atonalism in the early 20th century revolutionized the way composers thought about music.
- In the absence of a tonal center, atonalism often relies on other structural elements, such as rhythm and timbre.
- The avant-garde composer's use of atonalism created a sense of tension and dissonance that was new and unsettling to audiences.
- By abandoning the diatonic system, atonalism opens up new possibilities for expression and innovation in music.