How do dissonance and consonance function in music?

Dissonance and consonance play crucial roles in establishing emotional and tonal tension within music. Dissonance creates a sense of tension or a feeling of instability, which often resolves into consonance—this stable and pleasing sound. The tension generated by dissonance demands a resolution, typically to consonance, which provides a sense of completeness or rest. This interplay is fundamental in creating musical phrases and helps to shape the overall emotional arc of a piece.

In practice, composers and musicians use this dynamic to build narrative and emotional impact. The resolution from dissonance to consonance evokes feelings ranging from anticipation to satisfaction, making it central to the experience of music across various genres.