Definition
A cadence in music represents a harmonic progression that provides a sense of closure or resolution to a musical phrase or section. It is a fundamental element of harmonic analysis and understanding, frequently employed to delineate the end of a musical idea within larger forms such as sonata form, rondo, or theme and variations. Cadences are central to the organization and perceived structure of musical works across diverse genres and historical periods.
Origin
The term “cadence” derives from the Latin cadentem, meaning ‘falling’ or ‘descending’. Initially, it was applied to vocal music, particularly in the late medieval and Renaissance periods, to describe descending melodic lines that created a feeling of finality.
The concept of a cadence as a harmonic device, rather than simply a melodic descent, gained prominence during the Baroque era, with composers like Bach and Handel meticulously employing specific chord progressions to establish clear cadential effects. The French term cadence was also commonly used, reflecting the influence of French musical practice on European traditions.
Notation
There is no single, universally adopted symbol for a cadence in musical notation. Instead, cadences are indicated through the specific sequence of chords used at the end of a phrase or section. The most common cadence markings are ‘cadenza’ (often indicated