Biber: Requiem; Battalia; Balletae; Sonata

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich, baroque world of Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber with this captivating album, released on Decca Music Group Ltd. in 1994. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 5 minutes, this collection showcases Biber's mastery of composition and his unique contributions to the musical landscape of the 17th century.

The album opens with Biber's hauntingly beautiful "Requiem in F minor," a profound and moving work that demonstrates his exceptional ability to evoke deep emotion through music. Following this, the "Balletae à 4 Violette" offers a delightful suite of dances, showcasing the elegance and grace of the violin.

Next, the "Battalia à 10" provides a dramatic and vivid depiction of a battle, complete with the sounds of marching soldiers, the clash of arms, and the lament of the wounded. This work is a testament to Biber's skill in creating vivid musical narratives.

The album also includes the charming "Serenada 'Der Nachtwächter'," a serene and evocative piece that captures the essence of a night watchman's vigil. Finally, the "Sonata à 6 'Die Pauern Kirchfahrt'" rounds out the collection with a lively and spirited depiction of a peasant's journey to church.

Throughout the album, Biber's innovative use of scordatura (the retuning of strings) and his virtuosic violin writing are on full display, making this a fascinating and rewarding listen for both baroque music enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

27 april 1994

℗ 1994 Decca Music Group Limited

About Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber

Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, born in 1644 in Wartenberg, Bohemia (now Stráž pod Ralskem, Czech Republic), was a virtuoso violinist and composer whose extraordinary talent left an indelible mark on the Baroque era. Renowned for his exceptional skill on the violin, Biber was known to master the instrument up to the seventh position, a feat that set him apart from his contemporaries. His innovative use of scordatura, a technique involving retuning the strings of the violin, added a unique and expressive dimension to his compositions.

Biber's musical journey took him from his humble beginnings to the courts of Graz and Kroměříž, before settling in Salzburg, where he served as the Hofkapellmeister from 1684. His compositions, particularly his violin works, are celebrated for their originality and emotional depth. Among his most famous works are the "Rosary Sonatas," a collection of deeply symbolic and affect-laden pieces that showcase his virtuosity and compositional genius.

Recognized during his lifetime as one of the greatest violinists of his century, Biber's influence extended beyond his performances. His published instrumental music helped spread his reputation far and wide, though his innovative techniques sometimes drew criticism from his peers. Despite this, his legacy endures, and his music continues to captivate audiences with its brilliance and emotional resonance. Biber's contributions to the Baroque repertoire are a testament to his enduring genius and his place as one of the most significant figures in the history of Western music.