Definition

The use of two or more different musical keys at the same time in a piece of music.

Example

The composer experimented with polytonality to create a unique sound in his latest symphony.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of polytonality in music?

Yeah, it's when a piece uses more than one tonality, right?

Exactly! It creates such an interesting sound texture.

I love that! It really adds depth to the composition.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Polytonality → It is formed from "poly-" (from Greek "polus", meaning many) and "tonality" (from Latin "tonus", meaning tone). The word refers to the use of multiple tones or keys in music, indicating a complex harmonic structure with many tonal centers.

Memory Tip

Think of 'many' ('poly-') tones ('tonality') being used together in music — that's what polytonality means.

Visually Confused Words