32 Modulation II—Smoothing the Transition TBk3

Modulation within and between pieces — a way to create interest, energy, and a sense of flow.  Learn how to do it.

Modulation, the ability to segue within or between pieces with a similar or different meter, is discussed and demonstrated. The progression ii-V-I of the new key helps smooth modulations.

Learn how to change the mood during the modulation transition: triumphant to contemplative, or contemplative to triumphant. Modulations involving minor keys is included. Examples and exercises.

Revised 5.2014.  33 pages, 49 examples.

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31 Modulation I—Establishing the New Key TBk3

This chapter focuses on the basics, the beginning level. The most basic thing to master is the ability to find the V chord (or pivot chord) of the new key, for it will propel us securely into the new key. Any kind of V chord may be useable: V, Vsus, four over five, and Vsus9 is particularly good as it smooths the transition more than a dominant seventh.

We’ll work on mastering several kinds of V chords, and concentrate on modulations up a 1/2 and whole step. Examples, exercises for practicing, assignments.

Revised 2.2014.  30 pages, 55 examples.

20 Establishing the New Key – Modulation I KB Improvisation Bk1

To modulate means to change keys. When leading worship or performing in a Christian concert, there is often a need to modulate within pieces or to segue from one piece to another smoothly. This is especially true in contemporary worship where three to eight worship choruses/hymns may need to be connected in a seamless fashion.

This chapter stresses the basics: the importance of the V chord to propel songs into the new key, modulations involving various meters (4/4, 3/4, 6/8), walking the bass down or up, making entrances secure, and modulating within and between pieces.