Definitions

Question 1

Diatonic

Answer 1

Using notes which belong to the key

Question 2

Chromatic notes

Answer 2

Using notes which are outside the key

Question 3

Pedal

Answer 3

A pedal is a single note that is held on or repeated in, the bass. An inverted pedal note is a sustained or repeated note in a high register.

Question 4

Types of cadences and their meanings

Answer 4

A cadence is formed by two chords at the end of a passage of music.

• Perfect cadences sound as though the music has come to an end. A perfect cadence is formed by the chords V - I.
• Interrupted cadences are ‘surprise’ cadences. You think you’re going to hear a perfect cadence, but you get a minor chord instead.
• Imperfect cadences sound unfinished. They sound as though they want to carry on to complete the music properly. An imperfect cadence ends on chord V.
• Plagal cadences sound finished. Plagal cadences are often used at the end of hymns and sung to “Amen”. A plagal cadence is formed by the chords IV - I.