The Key to Modulation. Translation of Antonio Soler’s Chapter X of Llave de la Modulación (1762) and edition of the musical examples and 8 Preludes

Abstract

This work revolves around Llave de la Modulación, a treatise by Spanish composer Antonio Soler which was published in Madrid in 1762. Chapter X of this treatise is especially significant for performers because it deals with modulation and how to move quickly across distant keys, in a process that he refers to as Modulación agitada. In addition to Soler’s explanation, this chapter also includes a number of short modulation cases and eight preludes. The present work contains a transcription of these musical examples as well as a translation of Soler’s text to English. Despite the fact that its importance was originally widely praised even amongst the most renowned musicians of the Spanish court, this source is somewhat neglected by modern performers. This work aims to serve as a first step towards appreciating what Llave de la Modulación has to offer for the benefit of the modern musician.