Johann Sebastian Bach

Johann Christoph Altnikol (1720 - 1759) was a German organist and composer who is known mostly because of his marriage to Elisabeth Bach, Johann Sebastian's daughter. He often relied on his connection with the Bach family to obtain appointments. Not many of his works survive; in general, his compositions have not attracted much attention. Bach praised his music, but the great composer may have not been objective in his assessment of Altnikol.

Many of his works, including a magnificat and two cantatas, have been lost. His compositions are not valued highly today; Bach spoke well of his compositional ability, perhaps due to their personal relationship.

"Gedenke, Herr, wie es uns gehet" ("Be mindful of our condition, Lord"), BWV 217, is a church cantata, formerly attributed to Johann Sebastian Bach.

Although this Chorus: "Ändert euch, ihr Klage lieder" ("Be changed, you songs of lamentation") was originally written for 4 solo voices, chorus, flute, strings & continuo, I created this arrangement for Woodwind Quartet (Flute, Oboe, Bb Clarinet & Bassoon)