Music A-Level
Harmonic dissonance and tension
What Harmonic dissonance and tension means in Music A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Harmonic dissonance and tension
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Harmonic dissonance and tension in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Unresolved dissonances, seventh and ninth chords, bitonality and chromaticism are used to subvert tonal expectations and build psychological tension.
Topics that use Harmonic dissonance and tension
- Area of study 3: Music for media - Named composers (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Ambient and atmospheric textures
- Integration of technology and orchestra
- Leitmotif
- Minimalism and ostinato
- Minimalist techniques and ostinatos
- Motivic development and ostinato
- Music and psychological narrative
- Non-functional and modal harmony
Using Harmonic dissonance and tension 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