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A cadence moving from subdominant to tonic (IV–I). Often called the "Amen" cadence.
The plagal cadence is gentler and more restful than the authentic cadence. Use it after an authentic cadence for a final benediction, or as a warm confirmation of the tonic. It is the standard ending for hymns.
Brahms ends his Symphony No. 1 with plagal cadences layered on top of the final authentic cadence — adding warmth to the triumphant conclusion.
Plagal cadence is one of 228 terms in the Gradus musical dictionary, where every definition is written around how composers actually use the word.
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