1. Authentic cadences
An authentic cadence moves from V to I. A perfect authentic cadence is the strongest version: both chords are in root position, the soprano ends on scale degree 1, and the final chord is tonic. An imperfect authentic cadence is still V to I, but it does not satisfy all those conditions.
2. Half cadence
A half cadence ends on V. It sounds unfinished, like a comma instead of a period. Many phrases use a half cadence first, then a stronger cadence later.
3. Plagal cadence
A plagal cadence moves from IV to I. It is sometimes called the “Amen” cadence because it appears in hymn endings. It sounds softer than V-I.
4. Deceptive cadence
A deceptive cadence usually moves from V to vi instead of V to I. The ear expects tonic, but the music avoids it. This extends the phrase and creates surprise.
Mini quiz
Which cadence ends on V?
A half cadence.