Picardy

Picardy is a musical term referring to the practice of ending a piece of music in a major key, even if it begins or mostly remains in a minor key. Historically, composers would conclude compositions with a bright, major chord to create a sense of resolution and optimism, despite the music's overall minor mood. The term originates from the Picardy region in France and is most common in classical music from the Baroque and Classical periods. Essentially, it’s a stylistic choice that shifts the final tone of a piece to a more uplifting and major sound.