Canon and Gigue

Canon and Gigue by Johann Pachelbel arranged for saxophone ensemble with piano. The first part of "Canon and Gigue" is the very famous "Pachelbel Canon in D". The second part is a brief, lively gigue that is not well known at all. It was written by the German Baroque composer Johann Pachelbel as a work for three violins and bass continuo. The circumstances of its composition are unknown. It was written in the late 1600's but the actual composition date is unknown. Like his other music, Pachelbel's Canon and Gigue went out of style and was forgotten for centuries. It was re-discovered in the early 20th century. In the "Baroque revival" of the 1970's it became popular and very well known. It remains a favorite of many today. This arrangement of Canon and Gigue has three performance options: 1. SAT saxophone trio with piano 2. SATB saxophone quartet with piano 3. SATB saxophone quartet (no piano) The original work is in the key of D and was written for three violins and basso continuo. This arrangement has been transposed to the key of C. Some octave transpositions have been made to accommodate saxophones. The Canon is in common time and is typically played at a slowish, graceful tempo. The Gigue is in 12/8. It is much less well-known. It is quite short and should go at a lively allegro tempo. The original work had no tempo, phrasing, expression, or dynamic markings. They have been added for your convenience but please, feel free to ignore or amend them to suit your performance. A certain amount of improvisation and ornamentation was expected of players during the Baroque era and would not be out of place here. Late-intermediate to advanced players should have good success with playing this piece.