Pachelbel Canon
I–V–vi–iii–IV–I–IV–V: the eight-chord sequence from Pachelbel’s Canon
Musical context
How the progression relates to the chord, scale, mode and key.
Theory
General info
- Progression
- Pachelbel Canon
- Pattern
- I – V – vi – iii – IV – I – IV – V
- Type
- Major
- Mode
- major
- Genre
- Classical / pop
- Chord count
- 8
- Brief character
- I–V–vi–iii–IV–I–IV–V: the eight-chord sequence from Pachelbel’s Canon
Progression composition
Construction logic
The I – V – vi – iii – IV – I – IV – V progression is associated with Johann Pachelbel’s Canon in D. Fifth motion combines with a smooth descending line, while the final IV – V prepares a repeat from tonic. This scheme and its variants also appear in later popular music.
How it sounds
- Character
- Major functional progression
- Perceptual context
- Depends on melody, rhythm, tempo, register, and texture
- Stability
- Low — open ending on dominant
- Completeness
- Open — ends on dominant
Harmonic functions
Tonic establishes a stable centre, predominant prepares dominant, and dominant directs the motion back toward tonic.
Tensions & resolutions
Tension builds on V, V, IV, resolving to vi.
Harmonic context
Diatonic chords, scales, modes and cadences in the selected key:
The progression transposes to any key — the structure (degrees) stays the same, only the specific chords change.
Variability
- Replace triads with seventh chords for a richer sound
- Try chord inversions for smoother voice leading
- Add passing chords between the main degrees
Application in music
Musical scenarios
Common genres and uses for this progression:
- Analysis of a repeating Baroque bass model and its later variants
- Useful for harmonic analysis and studying voice leading
- Supports counterpoint practice and compositional exercises
Genre
Featured in songs
- Canon in DJohann Pachelbel
- Go WestPet Shop Boys
- Basket CaseGreen Day
- GraduationVitamin C
- Don't Look Back in AngerOasis
Practice
- Start at a slow tempo (60 BPM), playing each chord as whole notes
- Practice the transition between each pair of adjacent chords separately
- Break the progression into 2-chord fragments and practice each one
- Play the progression in different keys
- Use a metronome and gradually increase tempo by 5–10 BPM
Connections
Frequently Asked Questions
This progression on guitar 🎸
See how Pachelbel Canon looks on guitar.