Divina

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Baroque chamber music with Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber's "Divina," a captivating collection of sonatas and psalms that showcase the composer's virtuosity and innovation. Released on June 26, 2020, by Deutsche Harmonia Mundi, this album is a testament to Biber's mastery of the violin and his ability to blend sacred and secular themes seamlessly.

"Divina" features a selection of Biber's most renowned works, including pieces from his "Harmonia artificioso-ariosa" and "Sacro-profanus concentus musicus." The album opens with the intricate and expressive "Partia II in B Minor," followed by the serene and contemplative "Partia VII in C Minor." Each piece is performed with precision and passion, highlighting the technical brilliance and emotional depth of Biber's compositions.

In addition to Biber's works, the album also includes contributions from Johann Heinrich Schmelzer, another prominent figure in the Baroque music scene. The collaboration between these two masters creates a rich and diverse listening experience, showcasing the best of Baroque chamber music.

With a duration of approximately one hour and two minutes, "Divina" is a comprehensive exploration of Biber's musical genius. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a delightful journey through the Baroque era, filled with beautiful melodies, intricate harmonies, and masterful performances.

26 juni 2020

(P) 2020 Sony Music Entertainment Switzerland GmbH

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.