Perfect Authentic Cadence

Definition

A Perfect Authentic Cadence (PAC) is a strong musical resolution that occurs when a dominant chord (V) resolves to the tonic chord (I) in root position, with the root of the tonic chord being the highest note. This cadence creates a feeling of completeness and finality in music, often marking the end of a phrase or section. It highlights the importance of functional harmony and is crucial for establishing tonal centers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In a Perfect Authentic Cadence, both chords must be triads or seventh chords, with the V chord resolving to I.
2. The PAC provides a strong sense of closure and is often used at the end of musical phrases or sections.
3. Voice leading is essential for achieving a PAC; proper movement of voices helps emphasize the resolution.
4. The presence of embellishing tones can add color and complexity to the PAC, but they should not distract from its essential function.
5. A PAC is often contrasted with weaker cadences like Half Cadences or Plagal Cadences, which do not provide as strong a sense of resolution.

Review Questions

• How does voice leading contribute to creating a Perfect Authentic Cadence?
  • Voice leading is crucial for achieving a Perfect Authentic Cadence because it ensures that each individual voice moves smoothly and logically from the dominant chord (V) to the tonic chord (I). In particular, the bass line typically descends from the fifth scale degree to the tonic, while other voices move in a way that supports this resolution. Proper voice leading emphasizes the resolution and reinforces the sense of closure that a PAC provides.
• Explain how embellishing tones can enhance a Perfect Authentic Cadence while maintaining its functional integrity.
  • Embellishing tones can enhance a Perfect Authentic Cadence by adding richness and complexity without undermining its essential function. These non-chord tones can create tension leading into the PAC, which then resolves into consonance as the dominant chord moves to the tonic. Careful placement of these embellishments ensures they support rather than obscure the strong resolution of the PAC, maintaining its clarity and impact.
• Evaluate the role of Perfect Authentic Cadences in establishing phrase relationships within a larger musical structure.
  • Perfect Authentic Cadences play a significant role in establishing phrase relationships by marking important structural points within a piece of music. They signal clear endings to phrases or sections, allowing listeners to recognize shifts in musical ideas or themes. By creating moments of closure, PACs help to organize larger forms and guide the listener through complex harmonic progressions, reinforcing tonal centers and enhancing overall coherence in musical narratives.

Related terms

Authentic Cadence:

An authentic cadence occurs when the dominant chord resolves to the tonic chord, but it may not be in root position or have the root of the tonic as the highest note.

Subdominant Function:

Refers to the role of the IV chord in a key, often leading to the dominant chord, creating a progression that can set up a Perfect Authentic Cadence.

Voice Leading:

The smooth movement of individual musical lines or voices from one chord to another, important for creating effective cadences like the PAC.