Canon in D Violin Tutorial and Sheet Music

Canon in D was written by German composer Johan Pachelbel in the 17th century. Like most of Pachelbel’s works, Canon in D was largely forgotten until an arrangement and recording of it by the Jean-Francois Paillard chamber orchestra emerged in 1968. Since then, the work has been covered by many various ensembles and is very commonly played at weddings and funerals.

This work can be played in varying ensemble settings, but the version you’ll find here is for violin solo. When played with other instruments, the work is a true canon; each part (besides the bass notes) is the same and the players simply enter 2 measures apart.

This piece is in the key of D Major, meaning there are 2 sharps- F# and C#. This piece does work best with some shifting to third position and there are some slightly more advanced rhythmic patterns and fast passages. Before playing this tune, I suggest being familiar with shifting and third position and having basic note-reading skills. Download the sheet music and watch the full tutorial below.