Definition

Noun: A plagal cadence is a harmonic progression in Western music, most commonly found at the conclusion of a phrase or piece, where the subdominant chord (IV) resolves to the tonic chord (I). It is often described as having a "final," "stable," or "amen" quality, due to its frequent use in traditional church music.

Usage

The plagal cadence is used to create a sense of conclusive resolution, often following a more dramatic cadence or as a final, peaceful ending to a musical section. It is a standard cadential formula in classical, hymn, and popular music.

Examples

• The hymn concluded with a traditional plagal cadence, giving it a solemn and resolved feeling.
• After the tension of the dominant seventh chord, the composer used a plagal cadence to bring the movement to a gentle close.
• You can often hear a plagal cadence at the end of many classical pieces and church hymns.

Advanced Usage

• "Amen Cadence": The plagal cadence is colloquially known as the "Amen cadence" because it is the harmonic progression sung on the word "Amen" at the end of many traditional hymns.
  • The choir sang the final "Amen" on a classic plagal cadence.

Variants and Related Words

• Cadence (n): A sequence of chords that brings an end to a musical phrase.
• Authentic Cadence (n): A cadence where the dominant chord (V) resolves to the tonic chord (I).
• Half Cadence (n): A cadence that ends on the dominant chord (V), creating a sense of pause or incompleteness.
• Deceptive Cadence (n): A cadence where the dominant chord (V) resolves to a chord other than the expected tonic, often the submediant (vi).

Synonyms

• Amen Cadence: A direct synonym referencing its common liturgical use.
• IV-I Cadence: A technical synonym describing the chord progression.

Related Musical Terms

• Subdominant (IV): The chord built on the fourth scale degree.
• Tonic (I): The chord built on the first scale degree, the "home" key of the piece.
• Resolution: The movement from a dissonant or tense chord to a consonant or stable one.

Noun

1. a cadence (frequently ending church music) in which the chord of the subdominant precedes the chord of the tonic