Immerse yourself in the baroque brilliance of Heinrich Ignaz Franz Biber's "Rosenkranz-Sonaten," a masterful collection of sonatas that have captivated audiences for centuries. This album, released in 1991 by Archiv Produktion, features the renowned Reinhard Goebel and Musica Antiqua Köln, delivering a performance that is both historically informed and deeply expressive.
The "Rosenkranz-Sonaten," or Rosary Sonatas, are a series of sixteen sonatas composed by Biber, each dedicated to a mystery of the rosary. The album begins with the "Annunciatio" and concludes with a stunning Passacaglia in G Minor for solo violin, showcasing Biber's virtuosity and innovation. The sonatas are known for their technical demands and unique tuning, requiring the violin to be scordatura, or retuned, for each piece.
Recorded in January 1990 at the Sendesaal, this album offers a rich and immersive experience of Biber's compositional genius. The sonatas are performed with a level of precision and artistry that brings out the intricate details and profound spirituality of Biber's music. From the joyous "Visitatio" to the solemn "Crucifixio," each sonata tells a story, painting a vivid musical picture of the mysteries it represents.
With a duration of 1 hour and 52 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of Biber's "Rosenkranz-Sonaten," providing a deep dive into the world of late 17th-century music. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rewarding and enlightening listening experience.