Twelve-tone definitions
| Word backwards | enot-evlewt |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Adjective |
| Syllabic division | twelve-tone syllable separation: twelve-tone |
| Plural | The plural of the word twelve-tone is twelve-tones. |
| Total letters | 10 |
| Vogais (2) | e,o |
| Consonants (5) | t,w,l,v,n |
Twelve-tone music, also known as serialism or dodecaphony, is a method of composition that was developed by Austrian composer Arnold Schoenberg in the early 20th century. This technique is a way of organizing musical pitch by using all twelve notes of the chromatic scale without favoring any one note over the others.
History of Twelve-Tone
Schoenberg first introduced the twelve-tone method in the early 1920s as a way to break free from traditional tonal systems and explore new avenues of musical expression. This groundbreaking approach to composition had a profound influence on the development of modern music and inspired many composers to explore new possibilities in their own works.
How Twelve-Tone Works
In twelve-tone music, the composer creates a series or "tone row" that includes all twelve notes of the chromatic scale. This row serves as the basis for the entire composition, with the composer using different permutations and transformations of the row to create melodies, harmonies, and rhythms. By using the twelve-tone method, composers are able to create music that is completely free from traditional tonal constraints and explore new and innovative ways of organizing sound.
Key Features of Twelve-Tone
One of the key features of twelve-tone music is its emphasis on equality and non-hierarchical organization of pitches. Unlike traditional tonal music, where certain notes and chords are given more importance than others, twelve-tone music treats all twelve notes of the chromatic scale as equals. This creates a sense of unity and balance in the composition, as no single note or chord dominates the musical structure.
Another important aspect of twelve-tone music is its use of serialism, or the systematic ordering of musical elements. By creating a tone row and following strict rules for its manipulation, composers are able to explore a wide range of possibilities within a tightly organized framework. This allows for a high degree of control and precision in the composition process, while still allowing for creativity and innovation.
Legacy of Twelve-Tone
The influence of twelve-tone music can be seen in the works of many composers who followed in Schoenberg's footsteps, including Anton Webern, Alban Berg, and Milton Babbitt. While the twelve-tone method fell out of favor in the latter half of the 20th century, it remains an important part of the history of music and continues to be studied and appreciated by musicians and scholars around the world.
Twelve-tone Examples
- The composer used a twelve-tone technique to organize the pitches in the piece.
- Students in the music theory class studied the principles of twelve-tone music.
- The twelve-tone row used in the composition was carefully constructed by the composer.
- The pianist performed a challenging twelve-tone piece at the concert.
- Many modern composers experiment with twelve-tone composition techniques.
- The music critic praised the composer's innovative use of twelve-tone structure.
- The twelve-tone system revolutionized the way composers approach composition.
- The music student analyzed the twelve-tone row to understand its construction.
- The orchestra rehearsed a complex twelve-tone piece for their upcoming performance.
- The composer's mastery of the twelve-tone technique was evident in the intricate rhythms of the piece.