Short Key Modulations

Hi Carly,

I'm surprised to see that no one seems to ask you about the musical (as opposed to the lyrical) aspect of your songwriting. I'm a lifelong musician and composer who's been trained at several excellent schools, and I have a high level of respect for your abilities in this regard.

Specifically, you seem to have always had an excellent knack in turning around short key modulations in your songs while maintaining a completely natural feel, which isn't easy to do. What was your background in music composition before you started your professional recording career? Did you write primarily on the guitar, or were other instruments involved?

By the way... I'm 36 and have enjoyed (and respected) your music since I was a small kid.

Love, Jeff - Redondo Beach, CA

Oh dear, what is a 'short key' modulation?

That will tell you immediately that I am ear trained only and while I have discovered much theory on my own, it didn't include anything about "short keys". Will you write and tell me what it is? I'm not a total musical fool, but very close to one.

Very best and love, Carly - 4/29/05