Key of C Major – Canon in C

Instructor

Jonny May

Course Type

Course

Skill Level

Beginner

Duration

01:27:25

The key of C is the perfect place to start, because it uses only the white keys. Once you understand how this key works, you’ll have a blueprint for learning every other key. You’ll learn the C major scale in each hand, the chords that belong to the key of C, and four chord progressions (chord patterns) that show up in countless songs. Then you’ll put it all together with Jonny’s Canon in C, an easy piece that sounds impressive.

Once you’re comfortable, you’ll learn inversions, which are different ways to play the same chord. They make it easier to move from one chord to the next, so your playing sounds smoother and more connected. You’ll practice them with a simple three-chord pattern, then use them in Jonny’s Canon in C.

Then you’ll play Jonny’s Canon in C along with a bass and drums backing track, so it feels like you’re playing in a band. Finally, you’ll learn three easy ways to play chords for someone else to sing or play along to, using the same famous chord pattern as Pachelbel’s Canon, a favorite at weddings.

Featured Reviews

View PWJ member reviews of this course!

Steven Kaiser   verified

From "C" To Shining "C"

I really enjoyed reviewing the Key of C. Its always fun to play in because I don't have to think about sharps and flats. It is also a beautiful sounding key! What I really love about this presentation is that, although for me it is primarily review material, Jonny's Canon in C offers a challenge while still being very musically interesting and attainable. I love the progression of simple concepts to more challenging left and right hand techniques including chord inversions, arpeggios and broken chord accompaniment styles. It really is a fun, yet challenging way to learn new material - keeps you from getting bored with endless technique instead of actually learning the basics while playing real music! Thanks again!!

Mike Nash   verified

Tough as a beginner but rewarding

I spent ages on the first pattern, and then jumping into inversions felt like a bit too much, so I’ll have to review that some more

John Falconer   verified

Great First Step toward Arranging and Improv!

Jonny and Yannick provide a lot of insights and encouragement to beginner level students. I wish I had had music theory explained in such clear terms starting out in piano many years ago! Now that I am learning piano again, I am happy to have access to such great lessons!

Ernie Cruz   verified

Great song and variations

I really felt that I was playing music with Jonny’s Canon.

Nancy Thomas   verified

2 handed

Split brain split rhythms ahhhhh

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