Apr. 22-Apr. 28: Pachelbel's Canon

J. Pachelbel, Canon in D major

Pachelbel's Canon is a popular piece you may have heard before.  A canon is a musical device in which 2 or more voices play the same melody, entering at different times.  You may have done something similar by "singing rounds" of a song.  Enjoy the following video of this beautiful piece accompanied by a scrolling score where you can see exactly what each instrument is playing.

Questions

  • Have you ever sang rounds of a song before?
  • What is the texture of this piece, or any canon?  (Homophonic, monophonic or polyphonic)  Refer to previous listening activities if you need a refresher on music textures!