What is a cadence?

A cadence is made up of two chords which signal the end of a musical phrase. There are four different kinds:The Perfect Cadence is really recognisable because we hear it all the time! It is a chord V followed by a chord I and sounds like a really obvious end of a musical idea.The Imperfect Cadence, on the other hand, sounds unfinished. It ends on a chord V and makes you feel like there is more to come.The Plagal Cadence is found in a lot of church music. It is a chord IV followed by a chord I.The Interrupted Cadence sound really surprising. It starts in the same way as a Perfect cadence, but doesn't end on a chord I. It usually ends on a minor chord.

Answered by Kate W. Music tutor

4240 Views

See similar Music GCSE tutors

Related Music GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How do I define the differences between a perfect, plagal, imperfect and interrupted cadence?


Can you tell me the names of different rhythmic notation, and then give me there duration?


Describe how the opening of Stravinsky’s 'Symphony of Psalms Movement III' sets a religious atmosphere within a secular symphonic genre


What are the key differences changes within the style, form and musical techniques used in piano music between the classical and romantic periods?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences