Discussion»Statements»Rosie's Corner» What is the lure of ATONAL music? Who invented it? For what purpose? Harsh discordant hurts my ears. Doth it please thees?
I'd never heard of atonal music before so I went out to youtube and listened to some. I understand what you mean bout hurting one's ears. So chaotic and nerve racking (fingernails on a chalkboard?). Certainly no "Grand Canyon Suite"! And definitely not for someone who likes structure in their music.
Wanting to be fair, I continued to give it a chance. It took me several tries before I was finally able to see past it's irritating sounds (close my eyes and listen). I had to let go of any expectations and let it take me where it wanted me to go; to let it paint its picture in my mind, not mine in its. I must admit, I was quite surprised. It has a "voice" all its own. It's definitely not for everyone, but it is ... fascinating.
There is composer whose name escapes me...I think his first name is John...who uses that medium. I think he wrote a symphony or something. I guess I'll Google it. So you went beyond and above to see if there were something there of value? You're very brave. Thank you for your reply Shuhak and Happy Wednesday! :)
I saw on TV years ago a show with Leonard Bernstein where he said the way our ears are constructed, which is how we hear, it is easier for us to like tonal music which is music based on the usual basic chords. So even listening to atonal music our ears try to hear it as tonal even if it is not. Mostly I like tonal but I don't like to hear the same pieces that everyone does all the time so I like some variety with atonal too.
Shuhak 