I–V–vi–iii–IV–I–IV–V in F♯ Major
Pattern: I – V – vi – iii – IV – I – IV – V
Chords: F♯ – C♯ – D♯m – A♯m – B – F♯ – B – C♯
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | F♯ (details) | major | Tonic |
| V | C♯ (details) | major | Dominant |
| vi | D♯m (details) | minor | Submediant |
| iii | A♯m (details) | minor | Mediant |
| IV | B (details) | major | Subdominant |
| I | F♯ (details) | major | Tonic |
| IV | B (details) | major | Subdominant |
| V | C♯ (details) | major | Dominant |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through F♯ (Tonic) → C♯ (Dominant) → D♯m (Submediant) → A♯m (Mediant) → B (Subdominant) → F♯ (Tonic) → B (Subdominant) → C♯ (Dominant).
Pachelbel's Canon progression is an eight-chord descending pattern originally composed around 1680. Its elegant stepwise bass line creates a sense of inevitability and grace that has made it one of the most borrowed progressions in pop music. From wedding ceremonies to chart-topping hits, this extended cycle continues to captivate listeners.
Song Examples
- Canon in D — Johann Pachelbel
- Basket Case — Green Day
- Memories — Maroon 5