What is a cadence?
A cadence is the end of a phrase. A phrase is a musical sentence or thought, so a cadence is a musical punctuation. Just as there are many types of punctuation in English, there are many types of cadences. The most common cadences are: authentic, half, plagal, and deceptive. An authentic cadence is the strongest and most common type of cadence, and it gives a strong feeling of finality, similar to a period. Half, plagal, and deceptive cadences are not as strong as authentic cadences, but still give a sense of completion.Weak Cadences in Un Sospiro
Un Sospiro uses a very uncommon type of cadence, a vi - I cadence. This means that the last chord of the phrase is a I chord, and the chord preceeding it is a vi chord. This type of chord does not have a specific name, but it gives the same effect as a plagal, or "amen" cadence. A plagal cadence is typically a IV - I cadence, which gives a sense of finality and completeness, but it is softer than an authentic cadence.
Using a softer cadence gives the piece a more gentle, flowing, and expressive feeling, as there are not harsh and definite beginnings and endings to phrases.
Weak Cadences in Liu Yang River
Liu Yang River uses a different cadence than Un Sospiro. It uses a ii - V cadence, also known as a half cadence. A half cadence is similar to a comma, as it gives a feeling of completeness, but still gives the feeling that there is more to come. It is a form of weak cadence, as it does not give a strong sense of finality.
Using a half cadence gives the piece a more flowing feeling, as it provides a transition, but does not stop the emotion. It flows continuously, like a river.
