Authentic Cadence

Definition

An authentic cadence is a type of musical resolution that occurs when a dominant chord (V) resolves to the tonic chord (I), providing a strong sense of closure and finality in a musical passage. This cadence is a fundamental building block in Western harmony, helping to establish the tonal center and guiding the listener's ear through a piece of music. Authentic cadences are often found at the end of phrases or sections, serving to reinforce the overall structure of the composition.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Authentic cadences can be classified into perfect authentic cadences (PAC) and imperfect authentic cadences (IAC), depending on the notes in the highest voice and whether the root position is used.
2. In perfect authentic cadences, both chords are in root position, and the tonic note is in the highest voice, resulting in a very strong resolution.
3. Imperfect authentic cadences may have inverted chords or different notes in the highest voice, which gives a slightly weaker sense of closure compared to perfect authentic cadences.
4. The use of authentic cadences is essential in establishing and confirming tonality, making them a staple in classical and contemporary compositions alike.
5. Authentic cadences often occur at significant structural points in music, such as the ends of phrases or sections, contributing to the overall pacing and flow of a piece.

Review Questions

• How does an authentic cadence function in establishing tonality within a piece of music?
  • An authentic cadence functions by resolving the dominant chord (V) to the tonic chord (I), which creates a strong sense of closure and reinforces the tonal center. This resolution helps to confirm the key of the piece and signals to listeners that a musical phrase or section is coming to an end. By providing this clear resolution, authentic cadences guide listeners through the harmonic structure and enhance their understanding of the composition's overall direction.
• Compare and contrast perfect and imperfect authentic cadences regarding their impact on musical resolution.
  • Perfect authentic cadences (PAC) provide a strong resolution because both chords are in root position and the tonic note is in the highest voice, creating an unmistakable feeling of finality. In contrast, imperfect authentic cadences (IAC) may involve inverted chords or different notes in the highest voice, resulting in a weaker sense of closure. This difference affects how each type of cadence contributes to the flow and structure of music, with PACs delivering powerful resolutions while IACs allow for further development or continuation.
• Evaluate how authentic cadences interact with other types of cadences to shape musical narratives throughout a composition.
  • Authentic cadences interact with other types of cadences, such as half or deceptive cadences, to create tension and resolution within a musical narrative. While authentic cadences provide definitive resolutions that confirm tonal centers, half cadences leave listeners in anticipation by ending on the dominant chord. Deceptive cadences add surprise by resolving to unexpected chords instead of the tonic. This interplay between various cadential types shapes how composers build tension, develop themes, and guide listeners through their musical stories.

Related terms

Plagal Cadence: A plagal cadence occurs when the subdominant chord (IV) resolves to the tonic chord (I), often referred to as the 'Amen' cadence due to its common use in hymns.

Half Cadence: A half cadence ends on the dominant chord (V), creating a sense of anticipation or pause rather than full resolution, often leading to further musical development.

Deceptive Cadence: A deceptive cadence occurs when a dominant chord (V) resolves to a chord other than the tonic, typically the vi chord, creating surprise and extending the musical narrative.