The original melody was in E Phrygian, but Pachelbel, like many composers of the time, used an Ionian harmonization, presumably to avoid the mood of the Phrygian mode. Variation 1 is a three-part setting of the melody with the bass written out in short note values providing dynamic support to the upper voices.
The original tune was in E Phrygian, but Pachelbel, similar to other composers of his era, opted for an Ionian harmonization, likely to steer clear of the somber atmosphere associated with the Phrygian mode. Variation 1 is a three-part arrangement of the melody where the bass line is explicitly notated in short note values, providing rhythmic reinforcement to the upper voices.