Atonal Music: Definition & Examples

Atonal music can be simply defined as music that does not have a tonal center. That is, no matter what the melodic and harmonic content of a composition or segment, the notes do not “pull” towards a Tonic center at all.

One similarity between Atonal and Tonal music is that both types will contain intervals. In fact, it is impossible to create melodies and harmonies without using intervals. Examples of intervals are

• Major 2nd
• Minor 2nd
• Major 3rd
• Minor 3rd
• Perfect 5th
• Diminished 5th
• Augmented 5th
• etc

One difference between Atonal and Tonal music is that, as stated in the definition above, Tonal music will have the intervals relate and pull towards some Tonic center, while Atonal music will simply use each interval as a mere compositional device, without the presupposition that the melody or the harmony must eventually land on some sort of Tonic or Subdominant, or even a Deceptive Cadence.

Watch this video to learn more and see me demonstrate some Atonal music on the Classical Guitar. In the comment section below, feel free to mention the name of your favorite composer that wrote Atonal music.

Cordoba F7 Paco Flamenco Guitar