Cyclic Modulation: A method of changing keys in music where the modulation follows a specific pattern, often cycling through related keys.

Context and Significance

Cyclic modulation is a significant technique in music composition, allowing for smooth and logical progression between different keys. It is commonly used in classical and jazz music to create dynamic and engaging transitions. This technique is particularly useful for composers who wish to explore various tonal landscapes without abrupt changes, maintaining the listener’s interest throughout a piece.

Historical Background

The concept of cyclic modulation has its roots in the late Romantic period when composers began experimenting with more complex harmonic structures. It gained popularity in the 20th century as musicians sought to break free from traditional tonal constraints. Composers like Béla Bartók and Dmitri Shostakovich have been known to employ cyclic modulation to add depth and intrigue to their compositions.

Examples

In Maurice Ravel’s “Boléro,” cyclic modulation is used to create a sense of building tension and continuity, moving seamlessly through various key centers. Jazz musicians, such as John Coltrane, have also used cyclic modulation in their improvisations to explore different harmonic territories, as heard in Coltrane’s “Giant Steps,” where key changes occur in a cyclic manner.

Related Terms

Circle of Fifths: A visual representation of the relationships among the twelve tones of the chromatic scale, used to explain key changes and modulations.

Tonicization: Temporarily treating a pitch other than the tonic as the tonic.

Chromatic Modulation: A modulation using a chromatic alteration from one key to another.

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