Chain modulation is a sequence of dominant chords (including inverted chords) from either closely related keys (in fourth-fifth relationships) or remote keys.
This technique involves adding a minor seventh to each successive major tonic triad (or its inversion), thus turning it into either a dominant seventh chord or its inversion.
In more detail, dominant chains are formed by replacing the expected tonic following a dissonant dominant seventh chord or its inversion. In this case, the expected tonic is replaced by a minor major seventh chord on the same scale degree (or its inversion), created by adding a minor seventh above the root note or a major second below it.
Consistent avoidance of stability in chain modulation decentralizes the mode system, creating a spring-like effect (similar to syncopation in metrorhythm). Therefore, chain modulation is most characteristic of the dynamic sections of a musical form.
Let’s explore the examples of chain modulation
Mastering chain modulation with secondary dominant chords
If you have your way of constructing a chain modulation, you can share it, leaving comments (see the window below).
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