kadenser

Kadenser, the Danish term for cadences in music theory, denote the harmonic and/or melodic patterns that mark the ends of phrases or sections in tonal music. A cadence signals a pause, resolution, or rhetorical closure and helps structure musical form.

Common types include: authentic cadence (V-I), often called a perfect authentic cadence when both chords are in root position and the tonic is in the soprano; it provides strong finality. Plagal cadence (IV-I), known for its softer, amen-like feel. Half cadence (ending on V) creates a sense of pause and anticipation without final resolution. Deceptive cadence (V-vi) deflects expectation by moving to a vi chord, delaying resolution. In minor keys, the so-called Phrygian half cadence (iv6–V) is a frequent variant in classical music.

Function and usage: Cadences anchor tonal harmony and guide listeners through phrases. They appear at ends of periods, sections, and complete pieces, but can be used mid-phrase for rhetorical effect. While most associated with the common-practice period of Western art music, cadential concepts appear in many musical traditions and styles, including pop, film music, and jazz; jazz often expands cadences with dominants and substitutes (for example, ii–V–I progressions).

Non-tonal or modal music may feature cadence-like closures that do not rely on functional V–I progressions, but the term is still used to describe perceived rest points. Etymology derives from cadence, ultimately from Latin cadere, “to fall.”