Johann Christoph Oley

Though Oley was not connected with the Thomasschule, it is probable that he studied for a short time with Bach; the master's influence is not seen or heard in his music. As a skilled organist Oley moved from a church in Bernberg to St. Stephan in Aschesleben because of the better instrument. His compositions were commended by Agricola, one of Bach's other students. Fourteen keyboard variations survive as does a four volume work "Variirte Chorale" containing numerous arrangements for solo organ as well as oboe and organ, and organ and ensemble consisting of flute, oboe, bassoon, horn, violins, viola and cello. Oley preferred canons and emotive passages. ~ Keith Johnson