Phrygian cadence

theoryFRIJ-ee-an KAY-dentsfrom Greek

A type of half [cadence](/term/half%20cadence) in minor keys where the bass descends by half step from iv6 to V, evoking a d‍​‍​‍​‌​‍​‌​‌​‌​‌​‌​‍​‌​‍​‍​‍​‍​‌​‌​‌​‍​‌​‌​‌​‌​‍​‌​‍​‌​‍​‍​‌​‍istinctive archaic quality.

In Depth

The Phrygian cadence occurs when a first-inversion subdominant chord (iv6 in minor) moves to the dominant (V), with the bass voice descending by semitone.‍​‍​‍​‌​‍​‌​‌​‌​‌​‌​‍​‌​‍​‍​‍​‍​‌​‌​‌​‍​‌​‌​‌​‌​‍​‌​‍​‌​‍​‍​‌​‍ This half-step descent in the bass gives the cadence its name, as it mirrors the characteristic descending half step of the Phrygian mode. The progression creates an unmistakable sound — both ancient and emotionally charged — that has been used for centuries to evoke pathos and longing. In Baroque music, the Phrygian cadence frequently appears between movements of a multi-movement work, particularly at the end of slow movements, where it serves as a bridge to the next movement (often attacca). J.S. Bach used it extensively in his sacred works. The same bass motion — descending by half step — underlies the Andalusian cadence in flamenco music (Am–G–F–E), demonstrating how this ancient interval pattern transcends cultural boundaries.
Did you know?

The descending half-step bass motion of the Phrygian cadence is also the foundation of the Andalusian cadence used throughout flamenco and Spanish popular music.

Related Terms

cadencephrygian modehalf cadenceflamenco

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