Canon in D - Johann Pachelbel

Canon in D

Learn famous Baroque canon melody
Practice flowing eighth note patterns
Develop smooth legato technique

About This Song

Composer: Johann Pachelbel (c. 1680)

Difficulty: Intermediate

Notes Used: D, E, F#, G, A, B, C#, D (high)

Time Signature: 4/4

Key: D Major

Fingering Review

Full Song

Pachelbel's most famous composition. The melody is built on a repeating harmonic progression that creates a mesmerizing effect.

Practice Tips

New note: C#: C-sharp uses similar fingering to C but with the C# key
Smooth legato: This piece should flow seamlessly - connect all notes smoothly
Baroque style: Play with elegance and refined tone
Steady tempo: The canon builds on a steady, unchanging pulse

Practice Exercises

Practice C# in context with neighboring notes.

Master the opening descending pattern.

Practice the D major scale.

Practice smooth ascending phrases.

Put together the first section.

Historical Context

Johann Pachelbel's Canon in D, composed around 1680, is one of the most famous pieces of Baroque music. Originally written for three violins and basso continuo, the piece is a canon - a musical form where one voice imitates another at a fixed interval. The piece was largely forgotten after Pachelbel's death and was rediscovered in the 20th century. Since then, it has become one of the most popular classical pieces, frequently played at weddings and special occasions. The simple yet profound harmonic progression (known as the "Pachelbel progression") has influenced countless later compositions across many genres.

Performance Goal: Play this with smooth, flowing phrases and elegant Baroque style. The half notes should be sustained fully, creating a seamless, meditative quality.

Next Steps

Once you can play Canon in D confidently, try:

Learning to play it as a round with other recorder players
Adding subtle dynamics that grow and recede
Exploring "Eine Kleine Nachtmusik" for more Classical period music