Cadences In Major Keys Not Exceeding Two Sharps

Overview

Welcome to the course material on Cadences in Major Keys Not Exceeding Two Sharps. This topic delves into the essential concept of cadences within the realm of elementary harmony. Cadences play a crucial role in music as they provide points of rest, resolution, and conclusion in musical phrases.

One of the primary objectives of this course is for candidates to be proficient in identifying the various types of cadences that can be found in musical scores. Understanding cadences enhances a student's ability to interpret and analyze musical compositions effectively.

Before delving into the specifics of cadences, it is important to have a solid grasp of the major keys not exceeding two sharps. Major keys are characterized by their specific tonal centers and unique sets of notes. By limiting the scope to keys with two sharps or less, students can focus on mastering the fundamentals before progressing to more complex musical structures.

Within major keys not exceeding two sharps, students will explore different types of cadences, including perfect/full close cadences, imperfect/half close cadences, plagal/amen cadences, and interrupted/deceptive cadences. Each type of cadence serves a distinct function in the harmonic progression of a piece of music.

Perfect/full close cadences are characterized by their strong sense of resolution and finality. They often occur at the end of musical phrases or pieces, providing a satisfying conclusion to the listener. Imperfect/half close cadences, on the other hand, offer a sense of rest but leave room for further development and continuation within the music.

Plagal/amen cadences, commonly known as the "Amen" cadence, evoke a sense of peace and closure. These cadences are frequently used in hymns and religious music to signal the end of a section. Lastly, interrupted/deceptive cadences introduce a element of surprise by deviating from the expected harmonic resolution, creating tension and anticipation for the listener.

As students progress through this course, they will have the opportunity to practice identifying and analyzing cadences within musical excerpts. Developing a keen ear for cadences will not only enhance their understanding of harmonic structure but also deepen their appreciation for the nuanced art of musical composition.

Objectives

  1. Apply Cadences In Musical Compositions
  2. Identify Various Types Of Cadences
  3. Understand The Function Of Cadences In Major Keys
  4. Demonstrate Knowledge Of Cadences In Vocal Style
  5. Analyze Cadences In Musical Scores
  6. Differentiate Between Perfect/Plagal/Imperfect Cadences
  7. Recognize Deceptive Cadences
  8. Utilize Cadences In Harmonic Progressions

Lesson Note

Cadences are essential components in music that signify the end of a phrase or section, providing a sense of resolution or closure. When discussing cadences in major keys with no more than two sharps, we commonly encounter the keys of C major, G major, and D major. Understanding and applying cadences in musical compositions not only enhances the music's expressiveness but also its structural coherence.

Lesson Evaluation

Congratulations on completing the lesson on Cadences In Major Keys Not Exceeding Two Sharps. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.

You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.

  1. Which cadence typically ends a musical phrase feeling final and conclusive in a major key? A. Perfect cadence B. Plagal cadence C. Deceptive cadence D. Half cadence Answer: A. Perfect cadence
  2. Which cadence often follows the dominant chord and gives a sense of finality but is less conclusive than a perfect cadence? A. Plagal cadence B. Half cadence C. Deceptive cadence D. Interrupted cadence Answer: B. Half cadence
  3. Which cadence uses the subdominant chord going to the tonic chord and is commonly used in hymns? A. Authentic cadence B. Plagal cadence C. Deceptive cadence D. Half cadence Answer: B. Plagal cadence
  4. In a major key not exceeding two sharps, when the dominant chord resolves to the submediant chord instead of the tonic, what cadence is formed? A. Perfect cadence B. Plagal cadence C. Deceptive cadence D. Interrupted cadence Answer: C. Deceptive cadence
  5. Which cadence involves an unresolved dominant chord and creates a sense of tension or surprise? A. Plagal cadence B. Perfect cadence C. Deceptive cadence D. Half cadence Answer: C. Deceptive cadence
  6. When the chords involved in a cadence move in contrary motion, what type of motion is exhibited? A. Parallel motion B. Oblique motion C. Similar motion D. Contrary motion Answer: D. Contrary motion
  7. Which type of cadence involves the subdominant chord moving to the tonic chord, creating a peaceful and final sound? A. Imperfect cadence B. Perfect cadence C. Plagal cadence D. Deceptive cadence Answer: C. Plagal cadence
  8. In a major key not exceeding two flats, which cadence involves the dominant chord moving to the submediant chord? A. Perfect cadence B. Plagal cadence C. Deceptive cadence D. Half cadence Answer: C. Deceptive cadence
  9. Which cadence is known as the "Amen" cadence and often used in church music? A. Half cadence B. Plagal cadence C. Perfect cadence D. Interrupted cadence Answer: B. Plagal cadence

Recommended Books

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Subtitle A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Music
Genre MUSIC
Publisher Music Publications Ltd
Year 2018
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Harmony and Voice Leading
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Year 2020
ISBN 978-0-13-312771-8
Description This book focuses on primary and secondary triads in major keys, chord progressions, and vocal styles.

Past Questions

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JAMB UTME - Music - 2018 (Click to take full assessment)

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