The Classical Cadence: Conceptions and Misconceptions

The article examines notions traditionally attached to the concept of cadence in general, retains those features finding genuine expression in "the classical style" (as defined by the instrumental works of Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven), and investigates problematic ideas that have the potential of producing theoretical and analytical confusion. It is argued that cadence effects formal closure only at middle-ground levels of structure; a cadential progression is highly constrained in its harmonic content; cadential function precedes the moment of cadential arrival, whereas the music following this arrival may be postcadential in function; cadential content must be distinguished from cadential function; cadence represents a formal end, not a rhythmic or textural stop; and cadential strength can be distinguished in its syntactical and rhetorical aspects. An analysis of selected musical passages demonstrates that an accurate identification of cadence has a major impact on the interpretation of musical form and phrase structure.