Plagal Cadence

Definition

A plagal cadence is a harmonic progression that moves from the subdominant chord (IV) to the tonic chord (I), often described as a 'Amen' cadence due to its frequent use at the end of hymns. This cadence creates a sense of resolution and completeness, connecting it to various aspects like harmonic function, modulation, theme structure, and different types of cadences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Plagal cadences are typically used in more relaxed musical contexts compared to authentic cadences, providing a softer sense of resolution.
2. The plagal cadence's IV to I progression can be found in various genres, including classical, gospel, and popular music.
3. It is often associated with the finality of a musical phrase, giving closure without the stronger emphasis of an authentic cadence.
4. In many cases, composers use plagal cadences to enhance emotional expression in their music by providing a gentler resolution.
5. Plagal cadences can also serve as a transitional device when moving to different sections or keys within a piece.

Review Questions

• How does the plagal cadence function within harmonic progressions compared to other cadence types?
  • The plagal cadence functions as a softer resolution from the IV chord to the I chord, contrasting with the more definitive closure provided by authentic cadences that move from V to I. This difference highlights the unique role of the plagal cadence in creating a relaxed sense of completion in harmonic progressions. While both types of cadences signal the end of musical phrases, the plagal cadence offers an alternative that allows for emotional depth without the strong finality of an authentic cadence.
• In what ways does the plagal cadence facilitate diatonic modulation in music composition?
  • The plagal cadence can facilitate diatonic modulation by smoothly transitioning from one key area to another, particularly when moving away from tonic areas. Since it involves a movement from IV to I within the same key, it allows composers to create moments of tonal shift while maintaining coherence in harmonic function. This characteristic makes it useful for composers who wish to explore different themes or musical ideas without abrupt changes, enhancing the overall structure and flow of their compositions.
• Evaluate how composers utilize plagal cadences within theme structures to evoke specific emotional responses.
  • Composers evaluate and strategically use plagal cadences within theme structures to evoke specific emotional responses by providing gentle resolutions that can signify completion or reflection. The soft landing from IV to I allows for introspection and can create a comforting feeling, which is especially effective in lyrical and hymn-like contexts. By placing plagal cadences at critical moments in their themes, composers are able to enhance narrative arcs or emotional journeys in their works, demonstrating how harmonic choices directly influence listener perception and engagement.

Related terms

Harmonic Function: The role a chord plays within a key, determining its stability and how it relates to other chords in a progression.

Authentic Cadence:

A stronger type of cadence that resolves from the dominant chord (V) to the tonic chord (I), creating a definitive closure.

Diatonic Harmony: Harmony that uses chords built from the notes of a given scale, forming the basis for tonal music.