Minor Authentic Cadence i-iv-V-i
Piano sound loads on first tap. Resolved in the key of C — every chord links to its full analysis.
The definitive cadence in a minor key. The minor subdominant (iv) and a MAJOR dominant (V, borrowing the raised leading tone from harmonic minor) create a powerful pull that resolves firmly back to the minor tonic (i).
What each degree does
Home, but in shadow — the minor tonic. The same rest as I, coloured dark and melancholic.
The minor subdominant — a IV borrowed from the minor mode. That bittersweet, nostalgic plagal colour of a chord that 'should' be major arriving tinged with sadness.
Tension pulling home — the chord that 'wants to resolve' to I; it closes or opens sections. The dominant, the engine of the key.
Home, but in shadow — the minor tonic. The same rest as I, coloured dark and melancholic.