Unit Objectives

By the end of this unit, students will be able to: 

• Define modulation, identify examples of abrupt, step-up, step-down, and pivot chord modulation, and describe different expressive uses of modulation in composition. 

• Identify five closely-related keys, analyze repertoire examples to recognize modulation points and key relationships, and compare pivot-chord modulation with abrupt modulation, explaining the artistic considerations for choosing one over the other.

• Write a chord progression using pivot-chord modulation or V of the new key, and compose or adapt a section of a song to incorporate modulation, reflecting on the impact on the song's progression and emotion.

• Describe techniques artists use for smoothly modulating between keys, and analyze repertoire examples to identify the type of modulation and compositional techniques employed for modulating.