Cadencesprogressions

Cadence progressions refer to sequences of chords whose primary function is to establish, prolong, or resolve a cadence in music. A cadence is a harmonic event that signals a pause, closure, or rhetorical point in a piece. Progressions describe how chords move from one to another to realize that cadence, making the relationship between harmony and phrase structure explicit.

Common cadences include authentic cadences (V to I), which provide strong closed endings; imperfect authentic cadences (V to I without the tonic in the highest voice or with non-root position chords); and perfect authentic cadences (V7 to I in root position with a tonic in the soprano). Half cadences end on V, producing a sense of pause without full closure, while plagal cadences (IV to I) offer a softer, Amen-like cadence. The deceptive cadence (V to vi or a related substitution) creates surprise by diverting from the expected I outcome. A cadential six-four (I6/4–V–I) decorates the approach to a classical cadence by treating the I6/4 as a suspended V.

Common progressions illustrate how cadences are prepared and resolved. In traditional harmony, I–IV–V–I, ii–V–I, or I–vi–ii–V are standard routes to cadence points. In popular music, I–V–vi–IV or vi–IV–I–V are widespread, often functioning as long-tailed cadential progressions that propel sections forward. Effective cadence progressions employ clear functional harmony, smooth voice leading, and shared tones to reinforce the tonal center and guide the listener toward the intended cadence. These progressions underpin phrasing, modulation, and stylistic coloration across genres.