Which term best describes the short musical phrases often found at the end of sections?

The term that best describes the short musical phrases often found at the end of sections is a cadence. A cadence serves as a musical punctuation mark, signaling the end of a phrase or a section in a piece of music. It provides closure and can create a sense of resolution, helping to define the structure of the composition.

In music, cadences can be classified into different types, such as perfect, imperfect, or deceptive, each contributing a distinct feeling of finality or continuation. Recognizing cadences is essential for understanding the flow and form of music, as they often indicate transitions between sections or the end of a piece.

The other terms do not fit the description as closely. An intro refers to the beginning section of a piece, establishing themes or ideas before the main material. A verse is typically part of a larger song structure that features lyrics and occurs repeatedly throughout the song. A hook, while catchy and memorable, refers to a musical idea or phrase designed to catch the listener’s attention, and is often found throughout a song rather than specifically at the end of sections.