Cadence

Definition

Cadence is a musical term that refers to a sequence of chords that brings a phrase, section, or piece of music to a close. It acts as a punctuation mark in music, signaling moments of tension and resolution, and is crucial for establishing the overall emotional flow and structure of a composition.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cadences can be classified into different types, such as perfect authentic cadences, imperfect authentic cadences, plagal cadences, and deceptive cadences, each with its unique characteristics and emotional effects.
2. A perfect authentic cadence typically involves a progression from the dominant (V) to the tonic (I) chord and is considered the strongest type of cadence, providing a sense of finality.
3. Imperfect authentic cadences also resolve from V to I but involve an inversion or an omission of one note in the tonic chord, creating a less conclusive feeling.
4. Plagal cadences, often referred to as 'Amen' cadences, move from the subdominant (IV) to the tonic (I) and provide a softer resolution.
5. Deceptive cadences create surprise by leading the listener from V to vi instead of the expected I, creating tension and prompting further development in the music.

Review Questions

• How does cadence contribute to harmonic tension and resolution in music?
  • Cadence plays a vital role in shaping harmonic tension and resolution by providing definitive endpoints for musical phrases. Different types of cadences create varying levels of tension; for instance, perfect authentic cadences offer strong resolutions while deceptive cadences introduce unexpected turns. By employing these cadences effectively, composers can manipulate emotional responses and guide listeners through the harmonic landscape.
• Compare and contrast the different types of cadences and their effects on musical resolution.
  • There are several types of cadences, each with distinct effects on musical resolution. Perfect authentic cadences provide strong closure by moving from V to I, while imperfect authentic cadences offer a softer resolution due to an inversion or omission. Plagal cadences give a more gentle sense of ending by moving from IV to I. In contrast, deceptive cadences create unexpected tension by resolving from V to vi instead. This variety allows composers to express different emotions and maintain listener engagement.
• Evaluate how understanding cadences can enhance your songwriting skills and overall musical compositions.
  • Understanding cadences can significantly enhance songwriting skills by allowing composers to craft more effective emotional arcs within their music. By strategically employing various types of cadences, songwriters can manipulate tension and resolution, creating compelling musical narratives that resonate with listeners. Moreover, recognizing how cadences fit within harmonic progressions helps in designing cohesive structures that evoke specific feelings, making compositions more impactful and memorable.

Related terms

Harmonic progression: The sequence of chords played in a piece of music that creates movement and direction within the composition.

Dissonance: A combination of notes that creates tension or conflict, often leading to a resolution through consonance.

Resolution: The process in music where dissonance resolves into consonance, often occurring at the end of a phrase or section.