Immerse yourself in the profound and virtuosic world of Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber's "Mystery Sonatas," a masterful collection of 16 sonatas that pay tribute to the fifteen holy mysteries of the Rosary. Composed in the 1670s, these sonatas are renowned for their technical brilliance and innovative use of scordatura, a unique tuning system that enriches the violin's timbre and color, bringing to life the vivid themes of the Rosary.
This album, released on October 14, 2022, by Passacaille, features a stunning performance that showcases the depth and complexity of Biber's compositions. Each sonata is meticulously crafted to reflect significant moments in the lives of Christ and Mary, from the Annunciation to the Coronation of the Virgin. The sonatas are filled with a variety of movements, including Praeludiums, Allemandes, Gigues, and Sarabandes, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Baroque music.
Biber, a leading violin virtuoso of the 17th century, was celebrated for his ability to blend technical prowess with deep spiritual reflection. His "Mystery Sonatas" are a testament to his genius, offering a soulful journey through the heart of the Baroque era. The album's duration of 2 hours and 9 minutes allows for a comprehensive exploration of Biber's musical genius, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.
This recording by Les Passions de l'Ame, featuring violinist Meret Lüthl, follows their earlier successful presentations of Biber and his contemporaries. The album is a testament to the enduring appeal of Biber's music, which continues to captivate audiences with its virtuosity and depth. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
(C) 2022 Passacaille(P) 2022 Passacaille
Tracks
Rosary Sonata No. 1 in D Minor, C. 90 "The Annunciation": Praeludium - Aria and Variations - FinaleHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Mayumi Hirasaki, Michael Freimuth, Christine Schornsheim, Johannes Loescher
Rosary Sonata No. 2 in A Major, C. 91 "The Visitation": Sonata - Allemanda - PrestoHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Mayumi Hirasaki, Michael Freimuth, Christine Schornsheim
Rosary Sonata No. 3 in B Minor, C. 92 "The Nativity": Sonata - Courente and Double - AdagioHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Mayumi Hirasaki, Michael Freimuth, Christine Schornsheim
Rosary Sonata No. 4 in D Minor, C. 93 "The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple": CiaconaHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Mayumi Hirasaki, Michael Freimuth, Christine Schornsheim
Rosary Sonata No. 5 in A Major, C. 94 "The Discovery in the Temple": Praeludium - Allemanda - Gigue - Sarabanda and DoubleHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Mayumi Hirasaki, Michael Freimuth, Christine Schornsheim, Johannes Loescher
Rosary Sonata No. 6 in C Minor, C. 95 "Christ on the Mount of Olives": LamentoHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Mayumi Hirasaki, Michael Freimuth, Christine Schornsheim, Jan Freiheit
Rosary Sonata No. 7 in F Major, C. 96 "The Scourging at the Pillar": Allamanda and Variatio - Sarabande and VariationsHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Mayumi Hirasaki, Michael Freimuth, Christine Schornsheim, Jan Freiheit
Rosary Sonata No. 8 in B-Flat Major, C. 97 "The Crown of Thorns": Sonata - Gigue and 2 DoublesHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Mayumi Hirasaki, Michael Freimuth, Christine Schornsheim, Jan Freiheit
Rosary Sonata No. 9 in A Minor, C. 98 "The Carrying of the Cross": Sonata - Courente and 2 Doubles - FinaleHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Mayumi Hirasaki, Michael Freimuth, Christine Schornsheim
Rosary Sonata No. 10 in G Minor, C. 99 "The Crucifixion": Praeludium - Aria and 5 Variations - AdagioHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Mayumi Hirasaki, Michael Freimuth, Christine Schornsheim, Jan Freiheit
Rosary Sonata No. 11 in G Major, C. 100 "The Resurrection": Sonata - Surrexit Christus hodie - AdagioHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Mayumi Hirasaki, Michael Freimuth, Christine Schornsheim, Jan Freiheit
Rosary Sonata No. 12 in C Major, C. 101 "The Ascension": Intrada - Aria tubicinum - Allamanda - Courente and DoubleHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Mayumi Hirasaki, Michael Freimuth, Christine Schornsheim, Johannes Loescher
Rosary Sonata No. 13 in D Minor, C. 102 "The Descent of the Holy Ghost": Sonata - Gavotte - Gigue - SarabandaHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Mayumi Hirasaki, Michael Freimuth, Christine Schornsheim, Jan Freiheit
Rosary Sonata No. 14 in D Major, C. 103 "The Assumption of the Virgin": Grave - Adagio - Aria and Variations - GigueHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Mayumi Hirasaki, Michael Freimuth, Christine Schornsheim, Johannes Loescher
Rosary Sonata No. 15 in C Major, C. 104 "The Coronation of the Virgin": Sonata - Aria and Variations - Canzon - SarabandaHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Mayumi Hirasaki, Michael Freimuth, Christine Schornsheim
Rosary Sonata No. 16 in G Minor, C. 105 "Guardian Angel": Passacaglia (Adagio - Allegro - Adagio)Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Mayumi Hirasaki