Biber: Rosary Sonatas Nos. 1 - 15 and Passacaglia - Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the profound and spiritual world of Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber's "Rosary Sonatas" with this captivating collection. Released on Coviello Classics, this album presents a meticulously curated selection of Biber's most renowned works, spanning a total of 2 hours and 4 minutes of exquisite Baroque music.

The album features the complete set of fifteen "Rosary Sonatas," each dedicated to a specific mystery of the rosary, along with the iconic "Passacaglia" for solo violin. These sonatas are divided into three distinct sections: the "Joyful Mysteries," the "Sorrowful Mysteries," and the "Glorious Mysteries," each offering a unique musical journey through the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary.

Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, a virtuoso violinist and composer of the Baroque era, is celebrated for his innovative and expressive compositions. His "Rosary Sonatas" are particularly notable for their technical brilliance and deep spiritual resonance, making this album an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.

Recorded in various Thüringian churches, the album benefits from the rich acoustics and historical ambiance of these sacred spaces, enhancing the overall listening experience. Whether you are a seasoned aficionado of Baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises a rich and rewarding exploration of Biber's masterful artistry.

31 augustus 2010

Mielke Bergfeld Musikproduktion KG

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.