What is a Plagal Cadence? Music Theory Lessons

Piano Lessons / music theory / What is a Plagal Cadence? Music Theory Lessons

This is a term you may or may not be familiar with. The plagal cadence is a IV chord resolving to a I chord at the end of a piece. Why is this significant? Typically the end of a piece has a V – I or V7 – I cadence.

So why is the plagal cadence important and how can you use it in your music? It is a certain tool you can use to add a fresh color to the end of a piece. I highly recommend you listen to the accompanying video to this article to understand the function of a plagal cadence. Ultimately, the sound is what sets it apart.

A classic example of a plagal cadence is the “Amen” in a church service. Once you hear it, you will always remember it!

I hope this is helpful and if you have any questions about this topic or any other, please email me Robert@LivingPianos.com for more information.