Tone cluster
What Tone cluster means in Music A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Tone cluster
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Tone cluster in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
A highly dissonant musical chord comprising at least three adjacent notes in a scale, used to generate extreme tension, fear, or psychological disorientation.
Topics that use Tone cluster
- Area of study 3: Music for media - Musical elements (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- 9th, 11th, and 13th chords
- Action and drive
- added 6th
- Character development
- Chord extensions
- Chord nomenclature
- Cross-cultural orchestration
- Cross-rhythm
Using Tone cluster 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.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge