Music theory · Maestro
Introduction to Post-Tonal Theory
Atonality, twelve-tone technique, and pitch class sets
The 20th century broke tonality apart, and the Second Viennese School rebuilt music from first principles. This module introduces pitch class set theory, twelve-tone rows, and interval vectors through Berg's Lyric Suite and Webern's Five Movements for String Quartet.
Before this module
What this module covers
Introduction to Atonality
Twelve-Tone Technique and Serialism
Pitch Class Sets and Interval Vectors
The Second Viennese School and Strings
Post-Tonal Analysis Challenge
What comes next
Planning this part of your learning
- Where should I start with introduction to post-tonal theory?
- The curriculum places Chromaticism & Late Romantic Harmony before this module. Review those topics if they are unfamiliar. The first lesson is “Introduction to Atonality”: Music without a tonal center, how to listen and analyze. The order is a study guide, not proof that every learner needs the same pace.
- How long is the introduction to post-tonal theory module?
- The 5 listed lessons total approximately 102 minutes of material. That estimate describes lesson content, not the practice time needed to become comfortable with atonality, twelve-tone technique, and pitch class sets. Revisit one task at a time and use feedback from a teacher where physical technique is involved.
- What can I try here without an account?
- The introduction to post-tonal theory description, lesson sequence and prerequisite links are public. There is no full worked lesson sample for this module yet. The linked public tools and references are free. A free account includes the complete five-lesson foundation module in each instrument and five lessons in music theory, with saved progress and no expiry. Later lessons require the relevant paid package.
Open this module in Arco
Lessons include the synchronised staff, keyboard, and fingerboard view, recorded string playback, and quizzes that track your answers. The complete five-lesson foundation module in each instrument and five music theory lessons are free with an account, including saved progress and no time limit. Later lessons require the relevant paid package. Public samples do not assess physical technique or certify exam readiness.