Immerse yourself in the profound and spiritual world of Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber's "Rosenkranzsonaten, C 90-105," a masterful collection of 15 sonatas and a passacaglia for violin and basso continuo. Released in 2020 on the Pan Classics label, this album is a testament to Biber's genius and his deep connection to the mystical and devotional aspects of his faith. The sonatas, also known as the Mystery Sonatas, are a series of deeply personal and evocative works that reflect the 15 mysteries of the rosary, each movement painting a vivid musical picture of the corresponding biblical event.
Gunar Letzbor and the ensemble Ars Antiqua Austria bring these historic works to life with stunning virtuosity and sensitivity. The album spans over two hours, offering a rich and immersive experience that showcases the full range of Biber's compositional prowess. From the hauntingly beautiful "The Annunciation" to the triumphant "The Resurrection," each sonata is a journey through the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary, rendered in exquisite musical detail.
The "Rosenkranzsonaten" are not just a collection of beautiful pieces; they are a profound exploration of faith, devotion, and the human experience. Biber's innovative use of scordatura tuning, where the strings of the violin are retuned to create unique sonorities, adds an otherworldly dimension to the music. This album is a rare opportunity to experience the full scope of Biber's visionary work, performed with the highest standards of historical authenticity and musical excellence.
Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Rosenkranzsonaten, C 90-105" offers a deeply rewarding listening experience. The meticulous performances by Gunar Letzbor and Ars Antiqua Austria capture the essence of Biber's genius, making this album a standout in the repertoire of Baroque music.
2020 Pan Classics2020 Pan Classics
Tracks
Rosenkranzsonate No. 1 in D Minor, C 90 "The Annunciation": I. PraeludiumHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 1 in D Minor, C 90 "The Annunciation": II. Aria allegro - VariatioHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 1 in D Minor, C 90 "The Annunciation": III. Adagio - FinaleHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 2 in A Major, C 91 "Mary's Visit to Elizabeth": I. SonataHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 2 in A Major, C 91 "Mary's Visit to Elizabeth": II. AllemandeHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 2 in A Major, C 91 "Mary's Visit to Elizabeth": III. PrestoHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 3 in B Minor, C 92 "The Nativity": I. SonataHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 3 in B Minor, C 92 "The Nativity": II. Courante - DoubleHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 3 in B Minor, C 92 "The Nativity": III. AdagioHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 4 in D Minor, C 93 "The Presentation"Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 5 in A Major, C 94 "Child Jesus in the Temple": I. PraeludiumHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 5 in A Major, C 94 "Child Jesus in the Temple": II. AllemandeHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 5 in A Major, C 94 "Child Jesus in the Temple": III. GigueHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 5 in A Major, C 94 "Child Jesus in the Temple": IV. Sarabande - DoubleHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 6 in C Minor, C 95 "The Agony in the Garden": Ia. LamentoHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 6 in C Minor, C 95 "The Agony in the Garden": Ib. AdagioHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 6 in C Minor, C 95 "The Agony in the Garden": Ic. AdagioHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 7 in F Major, C 96 "The Scourging of Jesus": I. Allemande - VariatioHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 7 in F Major, C 96 "The Scourging of Jesus": II. Sarabande - VariatioHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 8 in B-Flat Major, C 97 "The Crown of Thorns": I. SonataHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 8 in B-Flat Major, C 97 "The Crown of Thorns": II. Gigue - Doubles I & IIHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 9 in A Minor, C 98 "Carrying the Cross": I. SonataHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 9 in A Minor, C 98 "Carrying the Cross": II. Courante - DoubleHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 9 in A Minor, C 98 "Carrying the Cross": III. FinaleHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 10 in G Minor, C 99 "The Crucifixion": I. PraeludiumHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 10 in G Minor, C 99 "The Crucifixion": II. Aria - VariatioHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 11 in G Major, C 100 "The Resurrection": I. SonataHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 11 in G Major, C 100 "The Resurrection": II. Surrexit Christus hodieHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 11 in G Major, C 100 "The Resurrection": III. AdagioHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 12 in C Major, C 101 "The Ascension": I. IntradaHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 12 in C Major, C 101 "The Ascension": II. Aria tubicinumHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 12 in C Major, C 101 "The Ascension": III. Allamande - VariatioHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 12 in C Major, C 101 "The Ascension": IV. Courante - DoubleHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 13 in D Minor, C 102 "The Holy Ghost": I. SonataHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 13 in D Minor, C 102 "The Holy Ghost": II. GavotteHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 13 in D Minor, C 102 "The Holy Ghost": III. GigueHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 13 in D Minor, C 102 "The Holy Ghost": IV. SarabandeHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 14 in D Major, C 103 "The Assumption of Mary": I. GraveHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 14 in D Major, C 103 "The Assumption of Mary": II. Aria - GigueHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 15 in C Major, C 104 "Crowning of the Virgin Mary": I. SonataHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 15 in C Major, C 104 "Crowning of the Virgin Mary": II. AriaHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 15 in C Major, C 104 "Crowning of the Virgin Mary": III. CanzoneHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Rosenkranzsonate No. 15 in C Major, C 104 "Crowning of the Virgin Mary": IV. SarabandeHeinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
Passacaglia in G Minor, C 105 “The Guardian Angel”Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, Gunar Letzbor, Ars Antiqua Austria
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