Phrygian cadence

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.