Music A-Level
Modality
What Modality means in Music A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of Modality
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Reference: AQA
Music based on modes rather than the major/minor tonal system, appearing for specific expressive effects in the Western classical tradition.
Use of modes such as Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian or Mixolydian rather than traditional major or minor scales.
Topics that use Modality
- Area of study 1: Western classical tradition 1650–1910 (compulsory) - Musical elements (AQA A-Level)
- Area of study 7: Art music since 1910 - Musical elements (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Compositional techniques
- Motif
- Ostinato
- Rhythm
- Thematic development
- 20th-century chord structures
- 20th-century compositional techniques
- 20th-century rhythmic innovation
Using Modality in the exam
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