H. I. F. Bieber: Missa Salzburgensis

Album Description

Experience the grandeur of the Baroque era with Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber's "Missa Salisburgensis," a monumental work that showcases the composer's mastery of polyphony and innovation. This album, released on November 5, 2013, under the Jube Classic label, presents a stunning performance of Biber's most ambitious sacred composition, along with the festive instrumental piece "Plaudite tympana."

The "Missa Salisburgensis" is a monumental setting of the Catholic Mass, scored for an impressive eight choirs, some with voices only, others augmented with instruments. This intricate composition demonstrates Biber's unique style and his significant contribution to the development of Baroque music. The work is a testament to the composer's skill in weaving complex vocal lines and his innovative use of instrumental colors.

The album features the complete "Missa Salisburgensis," including the Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, Benedictus, and Agnus Dei, providing a comprehensive exploration of Biber's musical genius. The recording also includes "Plaudite tympana," an instrumental piece attributed to Orazio Benevoli, adding a festive touch to the album.

With a duration of 55 minutes, this album offers an immersive journey into the world of Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, one of the most important composers of the late Baroque period. The performance captures the essence of Biber's unique style, making it an essential addition to any classical music collection.

5 november 2013

2013 Jube Classic

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.