Which term describes a chord that precedes a modulation, and is common to both keys?

Which term describes a chord that precedes a modulation, and is common to both keys?

• A. Dominant Seventh
• B. Pivot Chord
• C. Tonic
• D. Subdominant

Answer: (B)

A pivot chord is the harmony that acts in both the original key and the target key, used to move smoothly from one key to another. Because it belongs to both keys, it provides a natural bridge: listeners hear a chord that fits in the old key and, at the same time, is functional in the new key, helping establish the new tonal center. After this shared harmony, the music can cadence firmly in the new key, making the modulation feel gradual rather than abrupt. By contrast, dominant seventh, tonic, and subdominant describe roles within a single key, not a bridge chord that belongs to both keys.

A pivot chord is the harmony that acts in both the original key and the target key, used to move smoothly from one key to another. Because it belongs to both keys, it provides a natural bridge: listeners hear a chord that fits in the old key and, at the same time, is functional in the new key, helping establish the new tonal center. After this shared harmony, the music can cadence firmly in the new key, making the modulation feel gradual rather than abrupt. By contrast, dominant seventh, tonic, and subdominant describe roles within a single key, not a bridge chord that belongs to both keys.