Exercise 1: Cadences

1. Where do we normally find cadences?

We find cadences at the end of the piece or at the end of a musical phrase.

2. How can you be sure that you are looking at the end of a piece, in the grade
6 exam?
There is always a double barline at the end of a piece.

3. Using Roman numerals, name the chords in a) a perfect cadence, and b) a

plagal cadence.
A perfect cadence: V-I
A plagal cadence: IV-I

4. Which chord does an imperfect cadence finish on?

An imperfect cadence finishes on the dominant chord (V).

5. Identify the following cadences as “perfect”, “plagal” or “imperfect”.

Perfect Plagal Imperfect

6. Complete the missing alto and tenor parts in these cadences. Double the
root of the chord, and keep the top parts as close together as possible. All
unmarked chords are root position.
Progressions
7. Write the chord notes to complete the following 6-4 progressions. Make
sure each voice moves as little as possible, keeping the same note in the
same part whenever you can.