Where Do You Modulate to a Different Key?

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.

Where do minor keys modulate to?

Pieces in the minor key often move to a cadence in the relative major key at the end of the first section. For example, a piece in A minor may end its first section with a cadence in C major. The second section then takes the piece back to the original tonic key.

What is the V chord in the key of A?

The v chord, when derived from the notes of the natural minor scale, falls as a minor triad or minor 7th chord. For example, in the key of A Minor the chord built on the fifth of the scale is an Em (E G B) or Em7 (E G B D).

Alexander Ross

Alexander Ross

Gaming, Esports & Interactive Media Writer

Alexander Ross has covered the video game industry for a decade, writing deep dives on game design, esports tournaments, VR developments, and gaming culture.