rhizoverbBeta
DictionarymodulationMusical key change
noun

modulation

A change from one musical key to another.

A sudden modulation gives the final chorus a brighter sound.

Etymology
modulatLatinto measure or regulate
+ionEnglishprocess or result

The source concerns measured or regulated sound. The musical noun developed a specialized sense for a passage or process that changes the governing key.

More examples

  • The pianist uses a smooth modulation from C major to G major.
  • Several modulations make the ending feel unsettled.
  • We practice the modulation before playing the whole song.

Forms

modulation · modulations

modulate verb — To move between musical keys.

Similar words

key change
A less technical term for the same musical shift.