Cadences and Predominant Function in AP Music Theory: A Complete Guide
Music is built on harmonic progressions, and understanding cadences and predominant function is essential for analyzing and composing music. In AP Music Theory, cadences mark the end of musical phrases, while predominant chords create tension that leads to the dominant.
Let’s break it all down!
What Are Cadences in Music?
A cadence is a sequence of chords that brings a musical phrase to a conclusion. There are four main types:
- Perfect Authentic Cadence (PAC) – V → I in root position, with the tonic in the melody.
- Example: In C Major: G → C (strongest resolution).
- Imperfect Authentic Cadence (IAC) – V → I, but either inverted or without the tonic in the melody.
- Example: In C Major: G/B → C (weaker resolution).
- Half Cadence (HC) – Ends on V, creating an unfinished feeling.
- Example: I → V, ii → V, or IV → V.
- Plagal Cadence (PC) – IV → I, often called the “Amen” cadence.
- Example: In C Major: F → C (common in hymns).
- Deceptive Cadence (DC) – V → vi (surprises the listener by avoiding the expected tonic).
- Example: In C Major: G → Am.
What Is Predominant Function?
Predominant chords prepare the dominant (V) by creating harmonic tension. The most common predominant function chords are:
- ii (supertonic) – A minor chord in major keys (e.g., Dm in C Major).
- IV (subdominant) – A major chord (e.g., F in C Major).
- ii⁶ (first inversion of ii) – Smooth bass motion to V.
- Neapolitan (♭II) – A chromatic predominant (e.g., D♭ in C Major).
How Predominant Chords Work
A typical progression:
Predominant (ii or IV) → Dominant (V or V⁷) → Tonic (I)
Example in C Major:
- ii → V → I (Dm → G → C)
- IV → V → I (F → G → C)
Why Are Cadences and Predominant Function Important?
- Structure: Cadences define musical phrases.
- Tension & Release: Predominant chords build tension before resolving to V and I.
- Musical Expectation: Different cadences create closure or suspense.
Final Thoughts
Mastering cadences and predominant function is crucial for AP Music Theory success. Whether analyzing Bach chorales or composing your own music, recognizing these harmonic patterns will deepen your understanding of music structure.
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