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Music theory definition

Deceptive cadence

V to vi - the ear expects I and gets a surprise.

Four ways to end a phrase

A is musical punctuation.

Learn it in context

This term is introduced in Unit 10: Progressions and cadences. Work through the explanations and exercises to connect the definition with music.

  • Cadences

    Musical punctuation at the end of a phrase.

Chord progression
A series of chords.
Cadence
The chords that end a phrase, like punctuation at the end of a sentence.
Authentic cadence
V to I - the strongest ending.
Half cadence
A phrase ending on V - like a comma.
Plagal cadence
IV to I - the 'Amen' ending.
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