Pachelbel: Organ Works, Volume 1

Dive into the rich and intricate world of Johann Pachelbel's organ works with this meticulously crafted album, "Organ Works, Volume 1." Released on July 2, 2021, under the Resonus Classics label, this collection spans an impressive 36 tracks, totaling 71 minutes of exquisite organ music. Performed by the talented organist Matthew Owens, this album is the first in a series that promises to be a comprehensive exploration of Pachelbel's organ repertoire.

The album opens with a Prelude in D Minor, P407, setting the stage for a journey through Pachelbel's diverse compositions. Highlights include the intricate Fugue in D Minor, P154, and the virtuosic Toccata in F Major, P463. The album also features several Chorale Partitas, including the deeply reflective "Ach, was soll ich Sünder machen" and the uplifting "Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan." A standout feature is the series of twelve Magnificat Fugues in the quinti toni mode, showcasing Pachelbel's mastery of fugal writing.

Matthew Owens' performance on the iconic Frobenius Organ of The Queen's College, Oxford, brings a new depth and clarity to these timeless pieces. The album is a testament to Pachelbel's enduring influence and Owens' skillful interpretation, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a seasoned fan of organ music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a captivating exploration of one of the Baroque era's most prolific composers.