Tonality

usgb/təʊˈnæləti/
noun

The character of a piece of music determined by the key in which it's written or played.

The tonality of the symphony was major, making the piece sound happy and alive.
Visual representation of "tonality" - The character of a piece of music determined by the key in which it's written or played

Often appears as...

  • major tonality
  • minor tonality
Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "tonality"
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Musical Emotion

Understand that tonality can evoke specific emotions; major often sounds happy, while minor can sound sad.

Illustration for Musical Emotion
Notice the joyful tonality of the song during the celebration scene.
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Cultural Variation

Different cultures might associate tonalities with varied emotions or events, not always matching Western norms.

Illustration for Cultural Variation
The tonality used in this folk song conveys a different sentiment in Eastern music.
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Genre Indicator

Certain genres of music have typical tonalities; blues often has a 'blue' tonal scale, distinct from others.

Illustration for Genre Indicator
This blues riff has a tonality that's deeply rooted in American musical history.
Visual representation of the word "Tonality"

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