Modulation
Definition
Modulation is the process of changing from one key to another within a piece of music. It involves establishing new tonal centers and can create shifts in mood or emotion.
Related terms
Key Signature: A key signature is a set of sharps or flats placed at the beginning of a musical staff to indicate the key in which the music is written.
Chromatic Mediant: A chromatic mediant is when two chords share the same root note but have different qualities and are separated by an interval of a third.
Common Tone Modulation: Common tone modulation occurs when two keys share at least one common pitch, allowing for smooth transition between them.
"Modulation" appears in:
Study guides (2)
AP Music Theory - 2.3 Key Relationships: Parallel, Closely Related, and Distantly Related Keys
AP Music Theory - 5.4 The iii (III) Chord
Additional resources (4)
AP Music Theory - 6.6 Melodic Sequences
AP Music Theory - Unit 7 Overview: Harmony and Voice Leading IV (Secondary Function)
AP Music Theory - 7.4 Part Writing of Secondary Leading Tone Chords
AP Music Theory - 8.1 Modes
Are you a college student?
Study guides for the entire semester
200k practice questions
Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab
About Us
About Fiveable
Blog
Careers
Code of Conduct
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
CCPA Privacy Policy
Resources
Cram Mode
AP Score Calculators
Study Guides
Practice Quizzes
Glossary
Cram Events
Merch Shop
Crisis Text Line
Help Center
Stay Connected
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.
About Us
About Fiveable
Blog
Careers
Code of Conduct
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
CCPA Privacy Policy
Resources
Cram Mode
AP Score Calculators
Study Guides
Practice Quizzes
Glossary
Cram Events
Merch Shop
Crisis Text Line
Help Center
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.