plagal cadence
Học thuậtThân thiện
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
- a cadence (frequently ending church music) in which the chord of the subdominant precedes the chord of the tonic