Johann Michael Bach - Cantatas; Chamber Music (Vox Luminis; Clematis)

Information

Composer: Johann Michael Bach

1. Der Herr ist König
2. Ach, wie senhlich wart’ ich der Zeit
3. Es ist ein großer Gewinn
4. Sonata à 4 in G Minor
5. Suite in A Minor
6. Veni sancte spiritus

Vox Luminis / Lionel Meunier, artistic direction

Clematis

Date: 2026

Label: Ricercar

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This EP is an introduction to Vox Luminis and Ensemble Clematis' final installment of their landmark recording initiative dedicated to the complete works of J.S. Bach's ancestors, releasing in October 2026. This conclusion focuses on the cantatas and chamber music of his great-cousin, Johann Michael Bach (1648–1694). Featuring rare pieces, expert reconstructions, and recent discoveries, including the sole surviving composition by Johann Christoph Bach (1671–1721), the album offers a fascinating window into the musical lineage that shaped the Leipzig Cantor.

Johann Michael Bach (1648–1694), often designated as the "Gehrener Bach," was an influential German Baroque composer and organist. He was the son of Heinrich Bach, making him both a first cousin once removed and the father-in-law to Johann Sebastian Bach, who married his daughter, Maria Barbara. From 1673 onward, he served as town clerk and organist in Gehren. Renowned for his vocal and sacred compositions, his notable works include the cantatas Ach, bleib bei uns, Herr Jesu Christ and Liebster Jesu, hör mein Flehen, as well as the organ chorale prelude In Dulci Jubilo (BWV 751), historically attributed to J.S. Bach.