Dissonance

Definition

Dissonance refers to a lack of harmony among musical notes, creating tension and an unresolved feeling in the listener. It plays a crucial role in musical themes by enhancing emotional depth and driving the narrative forward, often contrasting with consonance to evoke a range of feelings such as conflict, anxiety, or urgency.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dissonance can be used strategically in film and television scores to underscore moments of conflict or emotional turmoil, enhancing the storytelling.
2. The degree of dissonance can vary; some pieces use mild dissonance for subtle tension, while others may employ extreme dissonance for dramatic effect.
3. Composers often create musical themes that feature dissonance to reflect character struggles or pivotal plot points within a narrative.
4. Dissonance is commonly resolved by moving to consonant chords, which can evoke relief and signify a return to stability after chaos.
5. In contemporary music, dissonance has become more accepted and frequently used as a tool for innovation and emotional expression.

Review Questions

• How does dissonance contribute to the emotional impact of musical themes in storytelling?
  • Dissonance plays a critical role in enhancing the emotional impact of musical themes by creating tension and unease that mirrors character struggles or plot conflicts. When used effectively, it can draw listeners deeper into the story, making them feel the characters' emotions more intensely. This sense of conflict generated by dissonance helps build anticipation for eventual resolution in the music, paralleling the narrative arc.
• What techniques do composers use to create a balance between dissonance and consonance in their musical themes?
  • Composers often use techniques such as alternating between dissonant and consonant chords to maintain balance in their musical themes. They may introduce dissonant elements during moments of conflict or drama, then resolve those tensions with consonant chords to provide emotional relief. This contrast not only keeps listeners engaged but also enhances the storytelling by mirroring the dynamics present within the narrative.
• Evaluate the evolution of dissonance in modern music composition and its significance in contemporary storytelling.
  • The evolution of dissonance in modern music composition reflects a shift toward embracing complexity and emotional depth in storytelling. Contemporary composers frequently utilize dissonance not just for tension but also as a means of character development and thematic exploration. By integrating dissonant elements into their scores, they create multifaceted soundscapes that resonate with audiences, allowing for a more profound connection between music and narrative, ultimately enhancing the overall impact of film and television.

Related terms

Consonance: Consonance is the combination of musical notes that are harmonious and pleasant to hear, often creating a sense of resolution and calm.

Tension:

Tension in music refers to the emotional strain created by dissonance, leading the listener to feel anticipation or unease.

Resolution:

Resolution is the process in music where dissonance is followed by consonance, providing closure and a satisfying conclusion to the musical phrase.