Missa Alleluja

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Baroque era with Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber's "Missa Alleluja," a monumental work that showcases the composer's mastery of polyphony and orchestration. Released in 2017 by Accent, this album is a stunning testament to Biber's innovative spirit and his significant contributions to the sacred music of the 17th century.

The centerpiece of the album is the "Missa Alleluja," a breathtaking mass setting for 36 voices, featuring a rich tapestry of singers and instrumentalists, including strings, cornetti, and trombones. The intricate interplay of voices and instruments creates a sonic landscape that is both majestic and intimate, reflecting Biber's unique compositional style.

In addition to the "Missa Alleluja," the album includes several other works by Biber, such as the "Nisi Dominus aedificaverit domum" based on Psalm 127, the "Violin Sonata in A Major, C. 106 'Pastorella'," and the motet "Hic est panis." These pieces further demonstrate Biber's versatility as a composer, ranging from sacred choral works to virtuosic instrumental compositions.

With a total duration of 59 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Biber's musical genius. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the Baroque era, "Missa Alleluja" is an essential addition to your collection, providing a rich and rewarding listening experience.

20 januari 2017

2017 Accent

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.