Cadences

When exploring musical cadences, it is essential to understand that not all follow the logic of suspension, preparation, and resolution. We will address five main types of cadences: perfect, imperfect, plagal, deceptive, and half-cadence. Each has unique characteristics and provides different musical sensations.

Perfect Cadence

The perfect cadence is characterized by the sequence "V - I" (Dominant - Tonic), being the strongest and most conclusive. Examples:

• G | C
• G7 | C7M

Authentic Cadence

The authentic cadence is a perfect cadence preceded by a subdominant chord (II or IV degree). Examples:

• F7M | G7 | C
• Dm | G | C

Imperfect Cadence

Although also formed by the sequence "V - I" (Dominant - Tonic), the imperfect cadence has one or both chords inverted, resulting in a weaker sense of progression. When the dominant chord is replaced by the VII degree, the cadence is also considered imperfect. Examples:

• G/B | C/E
• G/B | C
• G7 | C/E
• Bm7(b5) | C7M

Plagal Cadence

In the plagal cadence, the subdominant chord resolves directly to the tonic, without passing through the dominant. The sequences can be II - I or IV - I. Examples:

• Dm7 | C
• F7M | C

Deceptive Cadence

The deceptive cadence occurs when the expected resolution is replaced by a chord that is not the tonic. Examples:

• G7 | F
• G7 | Dm
• G7 | Gb7M

Half-Cadence

The half-cadence is characterized by resting on a dominant chord that does not resolve to another chord, leaving the progression open. Examples:

• Am | G7 | ?
• Dm | G7 | ?

Conclusion

Exploring and understanding musical cadences is fundamental for any music student, as they are essential elements that define the harmony and progression of a musical piece. By studying the different types of cadences - perfect, imperfect, plagal, deceptive, and half-cadences - and their variations in various keys, one can appreciate how each contributes to creating distinct sensations and resolving or prolonging harmonic tension.

Practicing the transposition of cadences to different keys not only strengthens theoretical knowledge but also improves musical flexibility and improvisation skills. Analyzing inversions and applying them in various contexts help internalize these concepts, making the construction and interpretation of music more intuitive.