Sonatae Tam Aris Quam Aulis Servientes

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the vibrant and dynamic world of Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber's "Sonatae Tam Aris Quam Aulis Servientes," a captivating collection of instrumental sonatas that showcase the composer's mastery and innovation. Released on April 30, 2015, under the Challenge Classics label, this album features the renowned Austrian period instruments ensemble Ars Antiqua Austria, delivering a performance that is both historically informed and musically exhilarating.

The album comprises twelve sonatas, each meticulously crafted to serve both sacred and secular purposes, as indicated by the title. The sonatas vary in instrumentation, ranging from intimate chamber settings to more expansive ensembles, providing a rich tapestry of sounds and textures. The performances are marked by their technical virtuosity and expressive depth, with the baroque trumpet section and virtuosic strings standing out as highlights.

Biber's use of scordatura, a technique involving the retuning of strings to achieve unique sonorities, is prominently featured, adding an extra layer of intrigue and complexity to the music. The ensemble's finesse and ethereal ensemble playing create moments of sheer musical enchantment, making this recording a standout in the realm of baroque music.

Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of early music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling journey through the musical landscape of the late 17th century. The precise and passionate performances by Ars Antiqua Austria bring Biber's compositions to life, offering a vivid and engaging listening experience. With a duration of just over an hour, this album is a testament to Biber's genius and the ensemble's dedication to historical performance practice.

30 april 2015

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.