Andalusian cadence
i–VII–VI–V: a descending minor progression with a tense VI–V semitone motion
Musical context
How the progression relates to the chord, scale, mode and key.
Theory
General info
- Progression
- Andalusian cadence
- Pattern
- i – VII – VI – V
- Type
- Minor
- Mode
- minor
- Genre
- Flamenco / rock
- Chord count
- 4
- Brief character
- i–VII–VI–V: a descending minor progression with a tense VI–V semitone motion
Progression composition
Construction logic
In i – VII – VI – V, the bass descends stepwise from minor tonic to dominant. The VI – V semitone forms a Phrygian cadential motion and approaches V with particular intensity. The progression is characteristic of flamenco and also appears in rock.
How it sounds
- Character
- Minor functional cycle
- Perceptual context
- Depends on melody, rhythm, tempo, register, and texture
- Stability
- Low — open ending on dominant
- Completeness
- Open — ends on dominant
Harmonic functions
The progression contrasts stable tonic and tense dominant functions.
Tensions & resolutions
Tension builds on VII, V, resolving to VI.
Harmonic context
Diatonic chords, scales, modes and cadences in the selected key:
The progression transposes to any key — the structure (degrees) stays the same, only the specific chords change.
Variability
- Replace triads with seventh chords for a richer sound
- Try chord inversions for smoother voice leading
- Add passing chords between the main degrees
Application in music
Musical scenarios
Common genres and uses for this progression:
- Flamenco and related styles in which a stepwise descending bass organises the harmony
- Minor introductions and cyclic sections with an intense VI–V semitone motion
Genre
Featured in songs
- MalagueñaErnesto Lecuona
- Entre dos AguasPaco de Lucía
- Recuerdos de la AlhambraFrancisco Tárrega
- Concierto de AranjuezJoaquín Rodrigo
Practice
- Start at a slow tempo (60 BPM), playing each chord as whole notes
- Practice the transition between each pair of adjacent chords separately
- Break the progression into 2-chord fragments and practice each one
- Play the progression in different keys
- Use a metronome and gradually increase tempo by 5–10 BPM
Connections
Frequently Asked Questions
This progression on guitar 🎸
See how Andalusian cadence looks on guitar.