Canon-Johann Pachelbel (1653-1706) By Estelle Bertrand Pachelbel's Canon is undoubtedly one of the great hits of classical music. It was originally written for three violins and basso continuo. The harmonic progression is very structural (IV, VI-III, IV-I, IV-V) and the melodic line follows a joint movement. Its character is solemn and majestic. In D major, this arrangement is ideal for familiarizing yourself with pima or pimi chords and arpeggio formulas.