Plagal cadence

Description

A cadence is formed by two chords at the end of a phrase. A plagal cadence is the subdominant to tonic chords ( IV–I ). In the key of C major, chords F to C.

Plagal cadence in C major

Examples

A cadence is formed by two chords at the end of a phrase. A plagal cadence is the subdominant to tonic chords ( IV–I ).

Related concepts

• Perfect cadence (N5)
• Imperfect cadence (N5)
• Interrupted cadence (H)