What is discord in musical terminology?

Discord in musical terminology refers to a combination of notes that creates tension or a sense of instability. This often arises from the use of intervals that are perceived as dissonant. In this context, intervals like the major and minor seconds, as well as sevenths, are considered dissonant because they can evoke a feeling of agitation or unease in the listener.

When musicians talk about discord, they are typically focusing on how certain intervals clash rather than blend harmoniously. The major and minor seconds, for example, create a close interaction of notes that can sound jarring, while sevenths introduce a complex relationship that often requires resolution to a more consonant chord.

This concept is vital to understanding tonal music and how composers manage tension and resolution within their works. The other choices, like harmony of major third or perfect intervals, refer to consonant sounds that provide stability rather than the sense of discord or tension that defines dissonance. Additionally, a single melodic line would not encompass the idea of discord, as it typically relates to harmony rather than the clash of multiple voices or notes.