Ach bleib bei uns, Herr Jesu Christ is a chorale prelude from Bach's Schübler Chorales, transcribed from the soprano chorale of his earlier cantata BWV 6. It exemplifies Bach's skill in reworking vocal music into virtuosic yet devotional organ pieces, blending intricate counterpoint with hymnody.
The Schübler Chorales represent Bach's strategic effort to make his complex cantata music accessible through organ transcriptions, bridging liturgical and domestic music practice while showcasing contrapuntal mastery.
Part of the Schübler Chorales (BWV 645-650), this organ prelude transcribes a movement from Bach's cantata. Characterized by intricate counterpoint and harmonic richness, it reflects Baroque devotional aesthetics. Originally composed for organ around 1748, it features a melody pleading for Christ's presence at nightfall.