What does modulation mean in a musical context?

In a musical context, modulation refers to the process of changing from one key to another within a piece of music. This technique is often employed to create contrast, enhance emotional expression, and maintain listener interest by taking the music to a different tonal center.

Modulation can be executed in various ways, such as introducing a key change suddenly or transitioning smoothly through pivot chords that are common to both the original and new keys. This shift can serve to intensify the music, leading to climactic moments or contrasting sections that enrich the overall composition.

By understanding modulation, musicians can appreciate how composers manipulate tonal relationships to craft diverse musical narratives.