Biber: Rosary Sonatas

Immerse yourself in the virtuosic world of Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber with this stunning 2015 release of his renowned "Rosary Sonatas." This double album, meticulously performed by Rachel Podger and her ensemble, offers a breathtaking journey through Biber's masterful composition, a collection of 15 sonatas for violin and continuo, each accompanied by a final passacaglia for solo violin. The sonatas, believed to have been penned in the 1670s, are a testament to Biber's extraordinary skill and innovation, featuring unique violin tunings (scordatura) that push the instrument and the performer to their limits.

Rachel Podger, accompanied by Marcin Świątkiewicz on harpsichord and organ, Jonathan Manson on cello and viola da gamba, and David Miller on theorbo and archlute, delivers a period-style performance that brings these historic pieces to life with remarkable authenticity. The album stretches the violin and the violinist to the limit, showcasing Biber's unparalleled virtuosity and the ensemble's exceptional talent.

Each sonata is intricately linked to the Christian Rosary practice, with copper-engraved vignettes that depict episodes from the lives of Jesus and Mary. The sonatas are divided into the Five Joyful Mysteries, the Five Sorrowful Mysteries, and the Five Glorious Mysteries, providing a comprehensive musical exploration of these sacred devotional themes. The album concludes with the "Passagalia in G Minor, C. 105 'Guardian Angel,'" a solo violin passacaglia that serves as a fitting finale to this extraordinary collection.

Recorded in multichannel sound, this album offers an immersive listening experience that highlights the intricate details and rich textures of Biber's compositions. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album is a captivating exploration of one of the most astonishing sets of violin sonatas ever written.