What Is a Cadential 6/4 Chord?
A Cadential 6/4 chord (pronounced “six-four”) is a common harmonic device used in classical and tonal music to create a strong, delayed resolution to the dominant (V) chord. It is a type of second inversion tonic chord (I⁶₄) that embellishes the dominant, adding tension before the final cadence.
Why Is It Called “6/4”?
The numbers 6/4 refer to the intervals above the bass note:
- 6 = a sixth above the bass
- 4 = a fourth above the bass
In a I⁶₄ chord, the bass note is the 5th scale degree (sol), while the upper voices form a tonic triad (do-mi-sol).
How to Identify a Cadential 6/4 Chord
- Occurs Before the Dominant (V) – It always resolves to V (or V7).
- Bass Note is Scale Degree 5 (Sol) – The chord is in second inversion.
- Part of a Cadential Progression – Typically found at the end of a phrase (e.g., I⁶₄ → V → I).
Example in C Major:
- Cadential 6/4: G (bass) + C-E-G (upper voices) = I⁶₄
- Resolution: Moves to V (G-B-D) then I (C-E-G)
Voice Leading Rules for Cadential 6/4 Chords
To ensure smooth voice leading:
- Bass: Stays on sol (5th scale degree) from I⁶₄ → V.
- Upper Voices:
- Do (1st scale degree) → ti (7th scale degree)
- Mi (3rd scale degree) → re (2nd scale degree)
- Sol (5th scale degree) remains or moves to the root of V.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Parallel 5ths/Octaves – Check between I⁶₄ and V.
- Doubling the Bass Incorrectly – Avoid doubling the 5th in the I⁶₄ chord.
- Resolving the 6/4 to a Non-Dominant Chord – It must go to V (or V7).
Why Is the Cadential 6/4 Important in AP Music Theory?
- Strengthens the Cadence – Creates a dramatic pause before resolution.
- Common in Classical Music – Used by Mozart, Beethoven, and Bach.
- Frequently Tested – AP Music Theory exams often include analysis questions on 6/4 chords.
Practice Example
Chord Progression:
I – IV – I⁶₄ – V – I
In C Major:
C (I) – F (IV) – C/E-G (I⁶₄) – G (V) – C (I)
Try Analyzing:
- Where is the cadential 6/4?
- How does the bass move?
- Are the upper voices resolving correctly?
Final Tips for Mastering Cadential 6/4 Chords
✅ Listen to Examples – Haydn and Mozart frequently use this progression.
✅ Practice Writing Them – Compose short progressions using I⁶₄ → V → I.
✅ Memorize the Resolution – Do → Ti, Mi → Re, Sol → (Sol or Do).
Conclusion
The Cadential 6/4 chord is a crucial concept in AP Music Theory, enhancing harmonic tension before a dominant resolution. By understanding its structure, function, and voice-leading rules, you’ll be well-prepared for exam questions and musical analysis.
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