Microtonal Music Beyond Suspense: An Exploration of Its Versatility

In the world of music, microtonality—the use of tones that lie outside the standard twelve-tone equal temperament system—has become a rich and diverse field. While it is often associated with suspense and horror due to its disorienting and atmospheric qualities, its applications extend far beyond these genres. From classical compositions to film scores and popular music, microtonal music continues to captivate and innovate.

The Role of Microtonality in Modernist Classical Compositions

Modernist classical composers have undoubtedly been at the forefront in employing microtones as a resource, integral to their predominantly atonal and consonant alternatives to traditional dissonance. Atonality, in its purest form, breaks away from the conventions of traditional harmony, creating a tonal landscape free from functional keys or chords, and microtonality can serve as a powerful tool to achieve such a dissonant yet harmonious sound.

Microtones in Different Genres

Beyond the realm of modernist classical compositions, microtonality can be found in various genres of music. One fascinating example is the utilization of microtones in Indian music. The rich tradition of Indian classical music, which often features microtonal variations, adds depth and complexity to film scores. Composers like A. R. Rahman have employed these microtonal elements in film scores like Slumdog Millionaire, creating a unique and emotionally resonant cinematic experience.

A notable exception to this is the iconic pop song "These Boots Are Made for Walking," performed by Nancy Sinatra. While not strictly microtonal, this song demonstrates how elements of microtonality can be integrated into mainstream pop music. The use of a slightly sharp D note in the chorus gives the song a slightly sharp and tense feel, perhaps evoking a similar atmosphere to the dissonance often found in microtonal music.

Consonance and Microtonality

It is also worth noting that consonant intervals, such as the harmonic seventh and higher harmonics, also fall outside the standard twelve-tone system. Music that embraces these intervals can be classified as microtonal. For instance, a well-tempered major third, which is precisely tuned to sound identical to the just major third but lacks the slight dissonance present in the just major third, can still be considered microtonal in a broader sense. This highlights the nuanced and varied applications of microtonality in music.

Conclusion

The use of microtonal music is not limited to suspense and horror music. From Indian classical to film scores and pop songs, microtonality continues to expand and evolve, offering composers and musicians a rich palette to explore and innovate. As technology and our understanding of music theory continue to advance, the potential of microtonal music is likely to grow, making it an ever more significant force in the world of music.