dissonant etymology

Etymology

  • Dissonant derives from the Latin word "dissonus", meaning "sounding harshly".

Meaning

  • A dissonant sound is one that creates a clash or discord when combined with other sounds.

Origin

  • The term "dissonus" was coined by the Roman philosopher and music theorist Boethius in the 6th century AD.
  • Boethius defined dissonus as a combination of sounds that displeased the ear because they did not naturally harmonize.
  • The concept of dissonance in music has been debated and refined throughout history.
  • In modern music theory, dissonance is generally defined as an interval or chord that creates a sense of tension or instability.

Examples of Dissonant Sounds

  • The interval of a tritone (three whole tones)
  • The interval of a minor second
  • The augmented third (four semitones)
  • The diminished fifth (six semitones)
  • Chords that contain suspended notes or appoggiaturas

Use of Dissonance in Music

Dissonance is a powerful tool that composers use to create a variety of effects in music.

  • It can create tension and drama
  • It can be used to highlight certain notes or harmonies
  • It can add a sense of movement and energy
  • It can be resolved to a more consonant sound, creating a sense of release

Composers have used dissonance throughout history to great effect. Some notable examples include:

  • The "Dies Irae" from Mozart's "Requiem"
  • The opening chords of Wagner's "Tristan und Isolde"
  • The dissonant harmonies in Beethoven's "String Quartet No. 14"
  • The use of dissonance in atonal music by composers such as Arnold Schoenberg and Anton Webern

dissonant relate terms

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