What does a cadence indicate?

• A. A cadence marks the end of a musical phrase.
• B. A cadence indicates tempo.
• C. A cadence is a type of chord progression that repeats.
• D. A cadence determines the key signature.

Answer: (A)

Cadences function like punctuation in music. They signal the end of a musical phrase by guiding the harmony toward a resting goal, most often the tonic. That sense of resolution makes the phrase feel complete, giving listeners a clear stopping point. The strength of the ending can vary—some cadences land with decisive finality when the harmony moves from the dominant to the tonic, while others feel more open if they end on a dominant, inviting continuation. Cadence is not about tempo, nor is it about the key signature, and it isn’t simply a repeating chord sequence; it’s a purposeful harmonic move that marks closure of a musical idea.