Which statement about tonality and keys is NOT true?

Tonality encompasses the use of both major and minor keys, and it plays a crucial role in defining the overall character and emotional impact of a musical piece. While minor scales can indeed exist within a tonal framework, the assertion that tonality requires a relative major for minor scales is incorrect. Minor keys can stand alone without necessitating their relative major; they have their own distinct identity and function within a piece of music.

The other statements hold true within the context of tonality. Tonality can influence the mood of a piece significantly, as major keys are often perceived as bright and joyful, while minor keys tend to convey sadness or introspection. Additionally, tonality is a defining characteristic in music genres, with certain styles gravitating towards major or minor tonalities to establish their unique sounds. Thus, the incorrect assertion about tonality and relative major highlights a misunderstanding of how minor keys can operate independently in music.