Decisive Cadence: A musical conclusion that firmly resolves a phrase, creating a sense of closure by moving from a dominant chord to a tonic chord.
Context and Significance
Decisive cadences are pivotal in music for establishing key centers and providing structural clarity. They are commonly employed in classical compositions, often marking the end of a section or piece. This technique is integral in genres where harmonic resolution is essential, such as symphonies and sonatas. By delivering a conclusive harmonic end, decisive cadences help listeners perceive the musical narrative and anticipate transitions between movements or sections.
Historical Background
The concept of cadence has roots in the early development of Western music theory. The decisive cadence, specifically, became prominent during the Baroque period as composers sought to create more formal structures in their works. This period saw the standardization of harmonic practices, with decisive cadences being used extensively by composers like Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frideric Handel to establish tonal resolution and emphasize thematic conclusions.
Examples
In Mozart’s Symphony No. 40, the decisive cadence is used to punctuate the end of the first movement, reinforcing the piece’s key of G minor. Beethoven’s symphonies also prominently feature decisive cadences, with his Fifth Symphony utilizing them to drive home the dramatic tension and resolution across movements. These examples highlight the cadence’s role in delivering a satisfying conclusion and supporting the overall architecture of a composition.
Related Terms
Perfect Cadence: A type of decisive cadence moving from V to I, offering a strong resolution.
Plagal Cadence: A softer cadence moving from IV to I, often called the “Amen” cadence.
Deceptive Cadence: A surprise cadence that resolves unexpectedly, creating tension.