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The “Amen” Chord Progression: The Plagal Cadence

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The “Amen” Chord Progression: The Plagal Cadence

As you know, the phrase “chord progressions” implies that chords move, or progress, from chord to chord to chord. There are several chord progressions that repeat over and over again in music, and one of the very most frequent chord progression is the IV to I chord progression – the plagal cadence. It has been named the “Amen” chord progression because it is so familiar from hearing hymns that end that way down through the years. You would recognize it in an instant.

In music theory it is known at the plagal cadence – the subdominant chord moving to the tonic chord.

Watch this short video to see some of the uses for the plagal cadence:

Also watch my video on different types of cadences at

https://www.playpiano.com/wordpress/Learnpianoplaying/authentic-cadence

You can also access my videos on YouTube at http://www.YouTube.com/ChordsGalore

More information on the various kinds of cadences at Wikipedia:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cadence_(music)#Plagal_cadence

Posted in chord progressions, music theory Tagged , permalink

About Duane

Duane Shinn (that would be me) has good news for you if you want to play the piano. He (me) has little fat hands & stubby little fingers - not at all suited for playing the piano - more suited to making mud pies or some such. I am also fairly uncoordinated with just average musical ability - certainly not a great piano player. But I've learned a ton about music over the years and people tell me I'm pretty decent at explaining how music works & how to progress more rapidly on the piano. Over the years I have developed about 150 techniques for conquering the piano. Most professional pianists can do these techniques, but very few can explain them in a way people can understand. I specialize in making complex techniques simple. I invite you to watch a few of my free videos and see some of these for yourself before making any decision about taking any of my courses.

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