Mensa Sonora & Al.

Immerse yourself in the rich, historical sounds of Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber's "Mensa Sonora & Al." This captivating album, released on November 28, 2021, under the 1824497 Records DK label, offers a unique journey into the world of Baroque music. With a duration of 48 minutes, this collection features a blend of serenades and suites that showcase Biber's mastery of contrapuntal writing and expressive depth.

The album opens with the "Serenade „Der Nachtwächter” (C 75) – 4. Ciacona („Lost Ihr Herrn…”), a piece that sets the stage for the intricate and beautiful compositions that follow. The heart of the album is the "Mensa sonora," a collection of six suites for violin, two violas, violone, and continuo, originally published in Salzburg in 1680. These suites, known for their clear forms and avoidance of virtuoso show effects, provide a serene and contemplative listening experience.

Performed by the renowned Musica Antiqua Köln, under the direction of Reinhard Goebel, this recording benefits from a larger ensemble size, enriching the sonorities and textures of Biber's compositions. The ensemble is joined by notable musicians such as Phoebe Carrai on cello, Thierry Maeder on harpsichord and organ, and other talented artists who bring these historical pieces to life with authenticity and precision.

"Mensa Sonora & Al." is not just an album; it's a testament to the enduring appeal of Baroque music and the genius of Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album offers a delightful exploration of one of the most innovative and influential composers of the seventeenth century.

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.