The twelve-tone system, also known as dodecaphony, is a method of composition invented by Arnold Schoenberg in the early 20th century. It involves the use of all twelve pitches in a tonal row, which can be manipulated in various ways to create a diverse range of melodies, harmonies, and rhythms. Other synonyms for the twelve-tone system include serialism, atonal music, and non-tonal music. Serialism, which refers to the use of a series or "row" of different pitches, is often used interchangeably with the twelve-tone system, although it can also encompass other compositional techniques. Atonal music, as the name suggests, lacks a tonal center or key, while non-tonal music simply refers to music that is not based on a tonal system.