Topmusicanswers
- What is a modulation in a fugue?
- How do you modulate between keys?
- How do you modulate the dominant key?
What is a modulation in a fugue?
An episode is a modulating link between the entries of the subject and answer to make a change from continual reiteration of the subject. They are usually based on a figure from the subject or counter-subject. The final section begins where the subject or answer returns in the tonic key.
How do you modulate between keys?
The smoothest way to modulate from one key to another is to use a pivot chord. A pivot chord is a chord that both keys share in common. For example C major and G major share four chords in common: C, Em, G, and Am. Any one of these chords can be used to transition smoothly from C major to G major.
How do you modulate the dominant key?
This technique is a useful way to modulate to the dominant: a composer can end a phrase with a half cadence (on the dominant chord) and then simply begin the next phrase in the dominant key.
