Biber's music, like other German violin music of the 17th century, shows a tendency towards dramatic jokes with a moralistic background, often imitating various noises.
Composer Biography
Heinrich Ignaz Franz Biber, the composer, was born in Wartenberg (Bohemia) in 1644 and became a highly esteemed citizen of Salzburg by the time of his death in 1704.
Performer Biography
Maria Lindal, the solo violinist, studied baroque violin in London and has been a member of the orchestra Anima Eterna since 1987.
Interpretation
Ensemble Saga uses historical instruments with their typical timbres and dynamics to gain insight into 'early' music.
Composition History
Biber's 15 Mystery Sonatas, a cycle where almost all pieces require scordatura, were composed for the services of the Rosicrucian Brotherhood in Salzburg.
Compositional Technique
Some pieces on this album feature violins tuned in an unusual way, known as scordatura, which elegantly solved problems of playing in numerous parts.
