What are some effective techniques that can be used to change key in a composition?

Here is a list of some techiniques:

1) Using a secondary dominant to move to the dominant key

2)Augmented 6th

3)Diminished 7th - use one of the notes within the dominant 7th as a 'leading note' to a desired key

4)Cycle of 5ths

5)Semitone movements - usually within a less tonal piece

JM
Answered by Jenifer M. Music tutor

4619 Views

See similar Music A Level tutors

Related Music A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe how to identify a Classical symphony and elaborate on a key musical form of the period.


How do I answer a 10-mark exam question? (A Level Music)


Explain how Elfman uses timbre and harmony to create a dark atmosphere in his piece ‘Batman Returns: Birth of a penguin’ part I & II’


Why is a German or Italian augmented sixth chord NOT the same as a dominant seventh chord?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning