Cadences

A cadence is how a chord progression ends. It's the final two chords - the last taste at the end of a musical phrase.

Think of it like finishing a meal. You can end with a satisfying dessert (resolved), leave the table mid-course (suspended), or serve something unexpected that makes everyone look up (deceptive).

Authentic cadence (V - I)

The strongest resolution in music - the dessert that perfectly caps the meal. The V chord creates tension, the I chord resolves it. Sounds complete and final - like the last course that rounds off a perfect meal.

This is the most common cadence. Used to end sections, choruses, and entire songs. Using the dominant 7th (G7) makes the pull even stronger.

Plagal cadence (IV - I)

The "amen" cadence - softer and warmer than authentic. Less dramatic, more settling. Often used as a gentle ending after the main resolution has already happened.

Half cadence (X - V)

Ends on the V instead of resolving to I. Feels unfinished - like stopping a meal before dessert. Creates expectation that something is coming next.

Used at the end of a verse to set up the chorus, or between phrases to keep the momentum going.

Deceptive cadence (V - vi)

You expect V to resolve to I, but it goes to vi instead. Surprising but not wrong - like expecting something sweet and getting something savoury. It works because vi shares two notes with I.

Used to extend a phrase when you want to avoid a full resolution. Common in pop, film scores, and any time you want to keep the listener engaged.

Comparing cadences

Next: borrowing chords from outside the key for unexpected colour.