Tonality and modulation
What Tonality and modulation means in Music A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Tonality and modulation
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Tonality and modulation in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Determining the key of a passage and identifying modulations to related or distant keys, with accidentals such as raised leading notes as strong indicators.
Topics that use Tonality and modulation
- Area of study 1: Western classical tradition 1650–1910 (compulsory) - Musical elements (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Antecedent phrase
- Antiphonal texture
- Aria
- Articulation
- Balanced phrases
- Bass suspension
- Basso continuo
- Binary form
Using Tonality and modulation in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Music questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge