Pachelbel's chorale prelude model

Pachelbel's distinctive approach to the chorale prelude: fore-imitation in all voices before the chorale enters in the top voice in long notes, creating a layered texture that became the template for an entire generation of composers including Bach.

Understanding the model helps performance: the fore-imitation entries (before the chorale appears) are compositionally derived from the chorale's opening phrase. Listening for this motivic connection enriches the interpretation. The entry of the cantus firmus is the structural event each fore-imitation section has been preparing — give it physical space by taking a slight breath (or space) before the chorale melody begins.