cadences

A cadence is a melodic or harmonic configuration that creates a sense of pause, rest, or resolution at the end of a musical phrase. In tonal music, cadences serve as structural points that establish or confirm the tonal center, guiding listeners toward a sense of closure or anticipation. Cadences can be realized through chords, melodic figures, or a combination of both, and they influence how a phrase is perceived as complete or ongoing.

Common harmonic cadences include the perfect authentic cadence (PAC) and the imperfect authentic cadence (IAC). Both typically end a phrase with a V to I progression, but the PAC requires both chords in root position and the tonic note in the soprano. The IAC may occur with inversions or without a tonic in the soprano. The half cadence ends on V, producing a pause that feels unfinished and invites continuation. The plagal cadence moves from IV to I, often described as a softer, more reverent alternative to the V–I progression. The deceptive cadence usually moves from V to vi, creating a surprise by avoiding the expected resolution to I.

In minor keys, cadences often involve modal colors and altered degrees, such as the Phrygian cadence, commonly iv6–V. A cadential six-four is a harmonic device in which an I6/4 chord functions as a part of the dominant progression, yielding I6/4–V before resolving to I. Beyond harmony, cadences also have melodic interpretations, with ending phrases characterized by distinctive cadential contours that reinforce the sense of closure or propulsion.

Cadences are a central concept in Western tonal music since the common-practice era and remain a key tool for shaping musical phrasing and structure. They express both finality and forward momentum, depending on their type and context.