Definition: A melodic or harmonic configuration that creates a sense of repose or resolution, marking the end of a phrase, section, or piece.
The Savvy Take: Think of cadences as punctuation marks. An “Authentic” cadence (V-I) is a period. A “Deceptive” cadence (V-vi) is a question mark. If you play through a cadence without breathing, it’s like reading a paragraph without pausing for a breath.