Modulation
Modulation can be defined as the changing of key within a piece or study. In music, a modulation is sometimes indicated by changing the key signature; this will usually be done if the modulation occurs between one section of the piece and the next. Where there is no change of key signature, a modulation may be detected by examining the notes themselves. Remember that each key is recognisable by the notes of its scale, and if different notes appear it may indicate a modulation. For example, if a piece which commences in the key of C major suddenly features G# notes, it could suggest a modulation to the key of A minor, (G# is the leading
note of A minor).
Playing notes: In the following dance you will notice G sharps occuring in the 5th and 6th lines, indicating a modulation to A minor (from C major). The modulation between major and relative minor keys is very common and in time you will learn to recognise it by ear.
English Dance is an example of ternary form (3 sections), where the order of the sections is A B A. Once again, anyone of these sections may be repeated, provided the order remains the same. e.g. A A B A .
Playing notes: The following study modulates from the key of Em to its relative major (G major) in the 17th bar.
Be sure to use the fingering exactly as indicated and use the slide technique for the first and second fingers at bar 17, 18 and 19. Use free stroke throughout the piece.
