Big Music Word of the Week: Dissonance

Hello, students! This week many of you discussed the word "dissonance" during your lesson and what it means. Then we talked about using dissonance in your weekly improvisation assignment and what your parents might think of your musical creations. (Parents, you're welcome.)

Dissonance is a fancy word for playing notes together that clash, or at least don't sound lovely in the usual sense. Dissonance can be used to build tension in music or to express anger, excitement, fear, or sadness. Some dissonance, especially when it's used on high notes can sound quite lovely.

What emotions did you end up expressing during your improvisation this week? I can't wait to hear your ideas!

In the mean time, listen to Debussy's Feux D'Artifice for inspiration. This song is about fireworks! How did Debussy use dissonance to create his musical sketch and build excitement?