Johann Michael Bach


Johann Michael Bach was a German composer of the Baroque period. He was the brother of Johann Christoph Bach, as well as first cousin, once removed and father-in-law of Johann Sebastian Bach. He is sometimes referred to as the "Gehrener Bach" to distinguish him from the "Wuppertaler Bach", Johann Michael Bach.

Life

Johann Michael was born at Arnstadt, the son of Heinrich Bach, who was the great uncle of Johann Sebastian Bach. In 1673, Johann Michael became the organist and town clerk of Gehren, where he lived until his death.

Works

His most-performed work is the small chorale prelude for organ, In Dulci Jubilo, which for many years was attributed to J. S. Bach. His other most important works include cantatas Ach, bleib bei uns, Herr Jesu Christ, Liebster Jesu, hör mein Flehen, and Ach, wie sehnlich wart' ich der Zeit.
In addition to composing music, J. M. Bach made musical instruments, including harpsichords.