Which term describes the end of a phrase or section in wind repertoire?

• A. Tremolo
• B. Tutti
• C. Sostenuto
• D. Cadence

Answer: (D)

Cadence signals the end of a phrase or section by providing a sense of closure through a harmonic progression, often accompanied by a moment of rest or breath in wind music. This makes it the best answer because it directly describes how a musical line is punctuated at its conclusion, helping players and listeners feel that a thought has finished or is about to pivot to the next idea. Tremolo is a rapid alternation of notes used for texture, not to mark phrase endings. Tutti refers to all players playing together, a texture/ensemble instruction rather than a phrase-ending device. Sostenuto means to sustain notes, emphasizing duration rather than marking the end of a phrase. In wind repertoire, cadences are the moments that signal closure and prepare for the next section.