In following the example of Samuel Scheidt, Pachelbel uses fragments of the chorale as melodic material for the contrapuntal background, resulting in interesting parts for all three lower voices. This piece is from a larger work for antiphonal choirs, specifically, the final portion of the composition when the two choirs join to sing as one. To reinforce the hymn tune, a trumpet may play the melody with the sopranos, while the keyboard part offers support through its doubling of the voices. |
