Music Term
What is a cadence?
Definition
A cadence is a harmonic sequence of two or more chords that marks the end of a musical phrase, section, or piece -- creating a sense of arrival, conclusion, or punctuation.
Cadence in music -- explained
Cadences are the punctuation marks of tonal music. The authentic cadence (dominant chord resolving to tonic, V-I) is the most definitive resolution in Western music -- the harmonic equivalent of a full stop. The half cadence (ending on the dominant, V) creates the effect of a comma or question mark, leaving the phrase open. The plagal cadence (IV-I) is associated with church music and the 'amen' ending of hymns. The deceptive cadence (V resolving to vi, the relative minor, instead of I) creates the effect of an interrupted sentence -- the expected landing doesn't arrive, generating surprise. Understanding cadences is fundamental to analysing how music breathes and structures its emotional arc. Rock and pop often use cadences implicitly, through chord progressions that establish and fulfil tonal expectations. Jazz disrupts cadences through substitution and harmonic extension, delaying or redirecting the expected resolution.
Notable examples of a cadence
Hallelujah -- Leonard Cohen
The plagal cadence (IV-I) on the word hallelujah gives the song its hymn-like quality and sense of benediction.
Don't Stop Me Now -- Queen
The song's driving energy is generated by perpetual motion through cadential progressions that never let the tension fully release.
All of Me -- John Legend
The chorus resolves through a clear authentic cadence that gives the declaration of love its harmonic certainty.
Related music terms
Frequently asked questions
- What is a cadence in music?
- A cadence is a harmonic sequence of two or more chords that marks the end of a musical phrase, section, or piece -- creating a sense of arrival, conclusion, or punctuation.
- What is an example of a cadence?
- A well-known example is Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen: The plagal cadence (IV-I) on the word hallelujah gives the song its hymn-like quality and sense of benediction.
- How is a cadence used in music?
- Cadences are the punctuation marks of tonal music. The authentic cadence (dominant chord resolving to tonic, V-I) is the most definitive resolution in Western music -- the harmonic equivalent of a full stop.
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