Music Theory - The "Amen" Chords - What Is A Plagal Cadence?

The video explores the history and development of the Plagal Cadence, also known as the Amen Cadence. It explains how early Western classical music lacked harmonic cadences due to its monophonic nature. The Plagal Cadence became popular in the 19th century, particularly in Anglican hymns. The video details the structure of the Plagal Cadence, highlighting the movement from the four chord to the one chord, and discusses its ambiguity due to the absence of a leading tone. The video concludes with a call to action for viewers to support the channel.

What was a major limitation of early Western classical music in terms of harmonic cadences?

• It lacked harmony.

• It had too many instruments.

• It was primarily polyphonic.

• It was too fast-paced.

When did the Plagal Cadence become widely used?

• During the medieval period

• In the 18th century

• In the mid-19th century

• In the 20th century

What is the defining movement of a Plagal Cadence?

• From the five chord to the four chord

• From the four chord to the one chord

• From the one chord to the five chord

• From the two chord to the three chord

In the context of Plagal Cadence, what is significant about the four to three movement?

• It adds tension in the middle voice.

• It resolves the melody.

• It introduces a new key.

• It creates a strong tonic resolution.

Why is the Plagal Cadence considered ambiguous?

• It is too fast.

• It lacks a clear rhythm.

• It does not have a leading tone.

• It uses too many chords.

What atmosphere can the Plagal Cadence evoke?

• A medieval or 19th-century Anglican atmosphere

• A classical symphony vibe

• A modern jazz feel

• A sense of urgency

What is a common criticism of the Plagal Cadence?

• It is too loud.

• It is too slow.

• It is not a strong tonic cadence.

• It is too complex.