CANONS and ROUNDS are pieces that are designed for all players or singers to perform the same music, coming in and ending at different times.. A Round is for singers and a Canon is usually for instruments. All rounds are canons but not all canons are rounds.
A canon is played by a number of groups depending upon how many parts the composer intended. Herewith are some famous canons. The transcriptions are suitable for all recorders. Play each of them along with the computer midi playback and you will have an ensemble experience.
Executing a canon is as follows. The first player starts at the beginning, usually marked I. When he reaches II, the second player begins at I, etc. up to the number of players indicated in the music. When each group reaches the end, it drops off. This is the customary way to terminate a canon, however, it is also acceptable for each group to go back to the beginning and play until an agreed upon stopping point (closing cadence) is reached. I have included canons for two, three and five players.
Each piece may be heard with all parts and played with one part (yours) missing. You may play along with the full version or play your part independently. Practice both ways and have fun.
| Tune | Composer | # Parts | Difficulty |
| Canon | Hauptmann | 2 | Easy |
| Canon | Sartorius | 2 | Intermediate |
| Canon | Praetorius | 5 | Intermediate |
| Dona Nobis Pacem | Traditional | 3 | Intermediate |
| Canon Sonata | Telemann | 2 | Advanced |