Music A-Level
Atonality and Serialism
What Atonality and Serialism means in Music A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Atonality and Serialism
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Atonality and Serialism in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Atonality completely abandons a tonal centre, and is often structured later through serialism.
Topics that use Atonality and Serialism
- Area of study 7: Art music since 1910 - Musical elements (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- 20th-century chord structures
- 20th-century compositional techniques
- 20th-century rhythmic innovation
- A cappella
- Additive and subtractive processes
- Alternatives to functional tonality
- Atonality
- Atonality and tonality
Using Atonality and Serialism in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Music questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Music A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge