A plagal cadence is a harmonic progression that moves from the subdominant chord (IV) to the tonic chord (I), creating a sense of resolution. This type of cadence is often referred to as the 'Amen cadence' due to its frequent use in hymns and religious music. It provides a softer, more conclusive feeling than other cadences, and is significant in establishing functional harmony within a piece.
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Plagal cadences are commonly used in choral music and hymn settings, giving them a serene and sacred quality.
The IV-I progression characterizes the plagal cadence, creating a gentle resolution compared to other cadences.
While less forceful than authentic cadences, plagal cadences still play an important role in establishing the key center.
In terms of voice leading, the movement from IV to I typically involves smooth transitions, often retaining common tones between chords.
Plagal cadences can be found in various styles of music, from classical compositions to contemporary genres, showcasing their versatility.
Review Questions
How does the plagal cadence differ from the authentic cadence in terms of emotional impact and functional roles within a piece?
The plagal cadence creates a softer, more subdued sense of resolution compared to the authentic cadence, which provides a stronger and more definitive closure. The IV-I progression of the plagal cadence often feels more gentle and reflective, making it suitable for hymns and sacred music, while the V-I progression of the authentic cadence delivers a clear signal of completion. Both cadences play essential roles in functional harmony but do so with different emotional weights.
In what ways does voice leading influence the effectiveness of a plagal cadence in musical composition?
Voice leading significantly impacts how smoothly a plagal cadence is perceived in music. The transition from the subdominant chord (IV) to the tonic chord (I) can be enhanced by retaining common tones and minimizing large leaps between voices. This creates a seamless flow that emphasizes the resolution effect of the plagal cadence. Effective voice leading ensures that the harmonic shift feels cohesive and natural within the larger context of harmonic progression.
Evaluate how plagal cadences contribute to overall harmonic progression in various musical styles and genres.
Plagal cadences enhance harmonic progression across many musical styles by offering an alternative means of achieving resolution. In genres like classical and choral music, they provide a calm and reflective ending that contrasts with the more assertive resolutions of authentic cadences. Contemporary music also utilizes plagal cadences for their soothing qualities, demonstrating their adaptability. Analyzing their use reveals how composers strategically incorporate this cadence to shape emotional responses and reinforce key centers throughout their works.
Related terms
Functional Harmony: A system of harmony that organizes chords based on their roles and functions within a key, guiding the listener through a tonal landscape.