What is Authentic Cadence?

An authentic cadence is a type of chord progression that creates a strong sense of resolution by moving from the dominant chord (V) to the tonic chord (I). This progression clearly reinforces the key of the music and signals the end of a musical phrase or section. Because of its strong resolving sound, the authentic cadence is one of the most important harmonic movements in Western music.

For example, in the key of C major, an authentic cadence occurs when the chord G major (V) resolves to C major (I). The dominant chord creates tension, and when it resolves to the tonic chord, the music feels stable and complete. This movement helps establish the tonal center of the piece.

Authentic cadences are commonly divided into two types: perfect authentic cadences and imperfect authentic cadences. A perfect authentic cadence occurs when both chords are in root position and the melody ends on the tonic note. An imperfect authentic cadence may have the chords in inversion or end with a different melodic note. Both forms provide resolution, but the perfect authentic cadence gives the strongest sense of closure.