Annegret Siedel, the Baroque violinist on this recording, has been performing as a freelance soloist, chamber musician, and concertmaster since 1995.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Each sonata in Biber's Mystery Sonatas is prefaced by a copperplate engraving depicting an event from the lives of Mary and Jesus, taken from a Rosary Brotherhood document.
Compositional Technique
Heinrich Ignaz Franz Biber's 15 Mystery Sonatas are unique in violin history for using 14 different violin tunings, known as scordaturas, which deviate from the standard tuning in fifths.
Composer Biography
Biber, the composer, was elevated to the nobility by Emperor Leopold I in 1690 after his playing had found favor with the emperor.
Instruments
The violins used in this recording include instruments by Jacob Stainer, a famous Tyrolean violin-maker whose work set high standards and influenced European violin-making centers.
Interpretation
Bell'arte Salzburg, the ensemble on this recording, specializes in historical performance practice, focusing on intensity of expression and nuanced playing.
Historical Context
The Salzburg court musicians, including Biber, belonged to the Holy Cross Brotherhood, which provided support for members and organized religious services.
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