Description
Johann Pachelbel, born in Nuremberg in 1653, was a prominent post-Reformation organ composer from Southern Germany, preceding the era of Bach. His compositions were already widely known during his lifetime. Pachelbel's most popular work today is likely his canon with ensuing gigue in D major.
The canon, scored for 3 violins and basso continuo, is built upon a repetitive 2-bar ostinato bass figure that is repeated 28 times. The subsequent gigue that follows is also written in a strict contrapuntal style. The exact date of composition for this work is unknown, though it was likely created during Pachelbel's time in Thuringia between 1677 and 1695. This pleasing, popular composition continues to be frequently performed by amateur ensembles.
