V–vi–IV–V in D Major
Pattern: V – vi – IV – V
Chords: A – Bm – G – A
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| V | A (details) | major | Dominant |
| vi | Bm (details) | minor | Submediant |
| IV | G (details) | major | Subdominant |
| V | A (details) | major | Dominant |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through A (Dominant) → Bm (Submediant) → G (Subdominant) → A (Dominant).
A progression that evades the expected tonic resolution by moving to vi, then circles back through IV to re-establish dominant tension. This technique extends phrases in Classical sonata development sections.
Song Examples
- Symphony No. 94 (Surprise) — Joseph Haydn
- Piano Concerto No. 21 — Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart