Jacob Paix, (* 1556 in Augsburg; † approx. 1623 presumably in Hilpoltstein) was a German organist, organ builder, bandmaster, composer and music publisher. He became known as a collector of his own and especially other people's music. His father was employed as an organist in St. Anna (Ausgsburg). From him the son received his musical education. In 1576 Jacob Paix was appointed organist of the parish church in Lauingen on the Danube. Here he developed a rich activity as a composer, editor and organ builder. In 1601 he obtained a better paying position as Protestant court organist in Neuburg on the Danubewhich was the residence of the Duchy of Palatinate-Neuburg. Here he was also responsible for figural music, directed the instrumental chapel of the Palatinate and also performed chancery duties. After Count Palatine Wolfgang Wilhelm converted to the Catholic faith in 1613, partly for political reasons, Paix, who steadfastly adhered to Lutheranism is said to have moved to the Protestant-oriented Hilpoltstein and died there in 1623. However, this is not documented with absolute certainty.
Jacob Paix is less important as a composer (his works included both vocal and instrumental music), but rather as a collector of mostly foreign music from the 15th and 16th centuries which he published primarily in two tablature books.
