Music GCSE
Cadences and modulation
What Cadences and modulation means in Music GCSE, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.
Definition of Cadences and modulation
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Cadences and modulation in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: Pearson Edexcel
The tonic is established by features such as opening and closing notes and cadences, and a piece may modulate to related keys yet still be heard as major or minor overall.
Topics that use Cadences and modulation
- Appendix 3: Musical vocabulary - Tonality (Pearson Edexcel GCSE)
Related terms
- Effect of omitting semitone steps
- Interval calculation
- Interval of a minor third
- Interval recognition
- Key signatures
- Major and minor patterns
- Major scale construction
- Minor scale construction
Using Cadences 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.
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