I–vi–IV–V–I in D Major

Pattern: I – vi – IV – V – I   Chords: D – Bm – G – A – D

Chord Breakdown

NumeralChordTypeFunction
I D (details) major Tonic
vi Bm (details) minor Submediant
IV G (details) major Subdominant
V A (details) major Dominant
I D (details) major Tonic

Harmonic Analysis

This progression moves through D (Tonic) → Bm (Submediant) → G (Subdominant) → A (Dominant) → D (Tonic).

A balanced Classical-period progression that passes through the submediant and subdominant before a perfect authentic cadence. This satisfying harmonic arc appears in theme statements across symphonies, sonatas, and chamber works.

Song Examples

Chord Details

More Progressions in D Major