Tonality and intervals
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Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can describe and identify the different types of tonality, and can identify intervals in context.
Key learning points
- Tonality determines the notes that are used in a piece of music.
- Lots of Western music is diatonic or chromatic, while many traditional styles around the world are modal.
- Atonal music has no key and microtonal music uses notes from in between the semitones.
- Identifying intervals allows musicians to work out musical ideas by ear.
- The simplest way to do this is by comparing intervals to reference songs.
Keywords
Diatonic - music which uses only notes that are based in the key (e.g. C major or F minor)
Atonal - music which has no key or tonic note
Modal - music based on modes, which are a type of scale different from major/minor scales
Chromatic - music that uses notes from outside of the keys
Microtonal - music which includes notes between the 12 Western semitones; these small intervals are called microtones
Common misconception
If music has a key, it must be diatonic.
Not necessarily. A piece of music can have a key, but use notes from outside of it. This would be chromatic. It could also have a key, but use some microtones as well, meaning it is microtonal.
Teacher tip
Identifying modal music is challenging, as it can sound similar to diatonic music. Context is key - modes are more common in folk styles of music than, for example, baroque music. If possible, create opportunities for pupils to explore modes through composition to build familiarity with their sound.
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