Canon in D Major
Johann Pachelbel
Work background
Researched classical background
Pachelbel's Canon combines imitating upper voices with a repeating bass pattern. The three violin lines enter successively and then become more active over the same harmonic foundation. It survives alongside a gigue, but the canon is often performed separately. Later arrangements change its scoring and dynamics substantially, so this entry refers to the underlying chamber work rather than one familiar modern arrangement.
A listening guide
Follow the repeated bass, then trace how the same material passes from one violin line to another.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Three violins and basso continuo originally
Work date: Date uncertain
The reviewed publisher catalogue gives only a broad date range; no exact composition year is asserted.
This entry describes the musical work or cycle. Composition, premiere and publication dates describe different events. Performers and recordings can be explored through the external listening search.
Also known as: Pachelbel's Canon; Canon from Canon and Gigue in D Major
Date, title and version notes
Exact composition date and circumstances are not established.
Canon and Gigue (Seiffert): String Orchestra, Conductor Score & Parts | Johann Pachelbel | Sheet Music - Alfred Music
Publisher catalogue: Canon and Gigue identity, violin-part scoring and a broad proposed date range; not an exact date or a personal inspiration. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Canon and Gigue (Seiffert): String Orchestra, Conductor Score & Parts | Johann Pachelbel | Sheet Music - Alfred Music
Publisher catalogue: Canon and Gigue identity, violin-part scoring and a broad proposed date range; not an exact date or a personal inspiration. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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