Certain Quote by Igor Stravinsky
“Consonance, says the dictionary, is the combination of several tones into a harmonic unit. Dissonance results from the deranging of this harmony by the addition of tones foreign to it. One must admit that all this is not clear. Ever since it appeared in our vocabulary, the word 'dissonance' has carried with it a certain odor of sinfulness. Let us light our lantern: in textbook language, dissonance is an element of transition, a complex or interval of tones that is not complete in itself and that must be resolved to the ear's satisfaction into a perfect consonance.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Music Theory Textbook, unspecified title
Dissonance is a clash of tones that creates tension needing resolution into harmonious consonance.
In simple terms: Clashing tones need resolution.
Key Takeaway
Embrace tension, then resolve it.
Themes
music theory
tension
resolution
harmony
composition
Mood
reflective
analytical
inquisitive
Type
educational
theoretical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- composing music
- arranging chords
- film scoring
- educational lectures
- improvisation
Key Concepts
dissonance
consonance
musical tension
resolution process
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you use tension in your creative work?
- When is unresolved dissonance effective?
A Different Perspective
Resolution may not always be possible or desired, leaving intentional dissonance for artistic effect.
