Tonkomposition

Tonkomposition refers to the compositional approach of structuring music based on tone color or timbre as the primary organizing element. This method elevates the sonic qualities of instruments or sounds to a central structural role, akin to how melody, harmony, or rhythm function in more traditional Western music. The concept became particularly prominent in the 20th century alongside the development of electronic music and extended instrumental techniques.

Composers working with Tonkomposition focus on the transformation, blending, and juxtaposition of different timbres to create form and narrative. The actual pitches played may be secondary to the unique quality of the sound produced. This approach often demands a heightened sensitivity to the physical properties of sound and the auditory perception of the listener. The score might contain detailed instructions for producing specific non-standard sounds.

Key examples can be found in the works associated with Klangfarbenmelodie, or "sound-color melody," such as in certain pieces by Arnold Schoenberg and Anton Webern, where a melody is distributed across different instruments to highlight changes in timbre. The term is also intrinsically linked to electronic music, where composers can manipulate pure sound waves to create unprecedented textures and sonic landscapes. Tonkomposition represents a significant expansion of musical material, challenging conventional hierarchies and opening new avenues for sonic exploration.