Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

Johann Pachelbel's music was immensely popular in his day but soon fell out of favour so that today he is known for just one piece, his famous "Canon". His influence may have been spread by one of his pupils: Johann Christoph Bach, the eldest brother of Johann Sebastian. Indeed, readers who appreciate Bach will find much to enjoy on this disc. This CD should change the perception of Pachelbel as a one-tune wonder. It offers a representative cross section of Pachelbel's sacred vocal music, with the programme formed by these selections following the "red thread" of a hypothetical Nuremberg vesper service on one of the Easter holy days. It is unlikely that the six pieces were ever used in this way but as an introduction to the sacred vocal works of a neglected composer this is indispensable. More than this, the performance is a master-class in period authenticity. La Capella Ducale give a definitive rendition and the singing of Musica Fiata is glorious. As is appropriate for Easter music the whole is joyous throughout.

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