What is Deceptive Cadence?

A deceptive cadence is a type of chord progression that creates an unexpected change instead of resolving in the usual way. In many cases, a dominant chord (V) is expected to resolve to the tonic chord (I), but in a deceptive cadence the music moves to a different chord instead, often the vi chord in a major key. This creates a feeling of surprise and continuation rather than a sense of completion.

For example, in the key of C major, a typical dominant chord would be G major (V). Instead of resolving to C major (I), a deceptive cadence might move from G major to A minor (vi). Because the listener expects the tonic but hears a different chord, the progression feels unexpected and keeps the music moving forward.

Deceptive cadences are commonly used by composers to add variety and prevent chord progressions from sounding predictable. They appear in classical music, pop, film scores, and many other musical styles. By delaying the expected resolution, a deceptive cadence helps create tension and interest within a musical phrase.