Imperfect authentic cadence
Imperfect authentic cadence V–I: weaker closure than a perfect authentic cadence
Theory
General info
- Name
- Imperfect authentic cadence
- Cadence type
- Authentic
- Sequence
- VI
- Chord count
- 2
Cadence composition in D
VA
ID
Construction logic
D
Dominant
T
An imperfect authentic cadence retains the V – I motion but lacks at least one condition of a perfect cadence: one chord is inverted, or the final tonic has a scale degree other than 1 in the soprano. Dominant still resolves to tonic, but chord position makes the close less conclusive.
How it sounds
The close is clear but weaker than a perfect authentic cadence. It suits internal formal boundaries after which the music continues.
Harmonic functions
VDominant
ITonic
- Why it works
- V–I retains dominant-to-tonic resolution, but one chord is inverted or the soprano of the final I is not tonic. The close is therefore weaker than a perfect authentic cadence.
Tensions & resolutions
VAA
IDD
The pull comes from the V→I fifth motion and the leading tone inside V. Without the added seventh the tension is gentler and the resolution calmer.
Harmonic context
An imperfect authentic cadence suits internal formal boundaries that need a clear but non-final close. It occurs in both common-practice and popular tonal music.
This cadence on guitar 🎸
See how Imperfect authentic cadence looks on guitar.
Application in music
Genres & styles
Classical
Pop
Rock
Examples in songs
- Ode to JoyBeethoven
- Amazing GraceTraditional
- Happy BirthdayTraditional
- Twinkle Twinkle Little StarTraditional
- YesterdayThe Beatles
Practice
- Play the V → I cadence in D major: A → D.
- Transpose it to other keys while preserving the scale-degree formula and voice leading.
- Stop before the final chord, then compare the unresolved and complete versions.
- Play with a metronome — start at 60 BPM and gradually reach 120.
- Alternate this cadence with other types to train your ear.
- Sing the bass notes of the chords to better feel the harmonic motion.