key term - Perfect authentic cadence (PAC)

Definition

A perfect authentic cadence is a musical progression that creates a strong sense of resolution, typically moving from the dominant chord (V) to the tonic chord (I). This type of cadence features both the root position for the V chord and the root position for the I chord, often with the tonic note in the highest voice. The PAC is essential in establishing tonal closure and is frequently used at the end of phrases to signal a complete thought in music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The perfect authentic cadence is often used at the end of a musical piece or phrase to provide a strong sense of closure.
2. In order for a cadence to be classified as perfect, both chords must be in root position, meaning the root of each chord is in the bass.
3. The tonic note must be in the highest voice during a PAC, contributing to its distinctive resolution quality.
4. PACs are commonly found in classical music but also appear in various contemporary styles, reinforcing their role in creating satisfying endings.
5. The transition from V to I in a PAC is one of the strongest resolutions in Western tonal music, making it a foundational aspect of phrase relationships.

Review Questions

• How does a perfect authentic cadence differ from an imperfect authentic cadence in terms of structure and voice leading?
  • A perfect authentic cadence differs from an imperfect authentic cadence primarily in the positioning of chords and voice leading. For a PAC, both the dominant (V) and tonic (I) chords must be in root position, with the tonic note being in the highest voice. In contrast, an imperfect authentic cadence may have one or both chords not in root position or may not have the tonic note as the highest voice. This difference impacts how strong or conclusive the resolution feels at the end of a phrase.
• Discuss how perfect authentic cadences contribute to establishing musical phrases and their emotional impact.
  • Perfect authentic cadences play a crucial role in defining musical phrases by providing a strong sense of resolution and closure. By moving from the dominant to the tonic chord, they create a satisfying conclusion that signals to listeners that a musical thought has been fully expressed. The emotional impact is significant; PACs evoke feelings of finality and completeness, often leaving listeners with a sense of fulfillment. Their predictable structure makes them effective tools for composers seeking to craft memorable and emotionally resonant pieces.
• Evaluate the use of perfect authentic cadences across different musical genres and their effectiveness in conveying tonal relationships.
  • Perfect authentic cadences are prevalent across various musical genres, including classical, jazz, pop, and rock. In each genre, their effectiveness lies in their ability to convey clear tonal relationships and create satisfying resolutions that audiences have come to expect. For instance, while classical compositions may utilize PACs for dramatic impact at key moments, contemporary pop songs often employ them to deliver memorable hooks or endings. The versatility and clarity provided by PACs allow composers and songwriters to navigate complex harmonic landscapes while ensuring listeners remain engaged through familiar resolutions.

Related terms

Authentic Cadence:

A harmonic progression that resolves from the dominant (V) to the tonic (I), which can be either perfect or imperfect depending on voice leading and chord positions.

Plagal Cadence:

A harmonic progression that moves from the subdominant (IV) to the tonic (I), often referred to as the 'Amen cadence' due to its frequent use in hymns.

Half Cadence:

A musical ending that creates a feeling of incompleteness, typically ending on the dominant (V) chord, leaving the listener expecting resolution.