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Johann Pachelbel's "Canon and Gigue in D major, P.37" is one of his most famous compositions, and there are several interesting facts associated with it:

1. Composition Date: Pachelbel composed the Canon and Gigue in D major around 1680. It's important to note that during his time, Pachelbel was primarily known as an organist and teacher, and this piece was not particularly well-known during his lifetime.

2. Canon Structure: The Canon in D is renowned for its intricate and beautiful canon structure. A canon is a type of composition in which a melody is repeated at precise intervals by one or more voices. In this piece, three violin parts play the same 8-bar melody in succession with a time delay, creating a mesmerizing and harmonically rich texture.

3. Popularity Growth: The Canon's popularity grew significantly in the 20th century. It became widely known and beloved after being recorded by various artists and used in numerous films, television shows, and commercials. This surge in popularity contributed to the piece's enduring fame.

4. Influence on Music: Pachelbel's Canon had a profound influence on subsequent composers, especially in the realm of Western classical music. Many composers drew inspiration from its elegant and repetitive structure, and it served as a precursor to the development of the classical period's musical forms.

5. Pachelbel's Legacy: While the Canon is Pachelbel's most famous work, he composed a wide range of other music during his lifetime, including organ music, choral works, and chamber music. However, he remains best known for this particular composition.

6. Variations: The Canon has been subjected to numerous arrangements, adaptations, and variations by various musicians and composers. Some modern musicians have even combined it with other popular pieces of music, creating unique mashups.

7. Wedding Favorite: Pachelbel's Canon is a popular choice for weddings. Its soothing and celebratory qualities make it a timeless selection for wedding ceremonies, especially during the processional or recessional.

8. Baroque Era Gem: Pachelbel was a composer of the Baroque era, known for its ornate and elaborate music. The Canon and Gigue in D major is a fine example of Baroque musical style, characterized by its balanced and structured form.

9. Mysterious Manuscripts: The original manuscript for the Canon and Gigue in D major was lost for many years but was rediscovered in the early 20th century. This discovery shed light on the composition and allowed for more authentic performances.

10. Enduring Popularity: Despite being over three centuries old, Pachelbel's Canon continues to be a beloved and widely recognized piece of classical music, making it a testament to the enduring appeal of beautiful and timeless melodies.