A Pachelbel's Canon

I – V – vi – iii – IV – I – IV – V progression in A major

A major
Chords
Triads7th Chords
Instrument
GuitarUkuleleBass
Harmony
Originalii–V–ISec. Dom.
IA
VE
viF#m
iiiC#m
IVD
IA
IVD
VE

8-Bar Structure

Bar 1A
Bar 2E
Bar 3F#m
Bar 4C#m
Bar 5D
Bar 6A
Bar 7D
Bar 8E

Triad Diagrams — A Pachelbel's Canon (Guitar)

A Pachelbel's CanonI – V – vi – iii – IV – I – IV – V

The A Pachelbel Canon progression (A – E – F#m – C#m – D – A – D – E) is one of the most influential harmonic sequences in music history. Its eight-chord descending bass line has been adapted into pop, rock, and hip-hop. With seventh voicings (AMaj7 – E7 – F#m7 – C#m7 – DMaj7 – AMaj7 – DMaj7 – E7), it gains a lush, orchestral texture.

Classical / PopEpic & Nostalgic4/4 · 8 bars

Chords (triads): A, E, F#m, C#m, D.

Chords (7th): AMaj7, E7, F#m7, C#m7, DMaj7.

Famous songs using this progression

  • Let It Be – The Beatles
  • Memories – Maroon 5
  • Basket Case – Green Day
  • Go West – Village People