Modulation

Modulation is a the practice of changing keys inside of a composition. This can be done for a variety of reasons, but its basic purpose is to contrast or create tension against the previous (and possibly even prior) key(s). Typical modulations are found when themes or sections change. They can also be used to seemingly add energy to a prior theme/section.

Contents

Common Modulations

Modulations usually take place between highly-related keys (those with the most common notes). See the table below.

		Common Notes
		Major	Minor	Harmonic Minor
Major Keys
	I	7	4	5
	II
	III
	IV
	V
	VI
	VII
Minor Keys
	I
	II
	III
	IV
	V
	VI
	VII
Harmonic Minor Keys
	I
	II
	III
	IV
	V
	VI
	VII

Related Lessons

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