Johann Heinrich Schmelzer, a virtuoso violinist and major composer, was Kapellmeister in Vienna and was ennobled by Emperor Leopold I, with whom he maintained a close friendship.
Compositional Technique
The album's program features a constant ostinato, a repeating bass line, over which a virtuoso solo part is played, offering extensive creative possibilities.
Instruments
Domitille Gilon, the violinist and director of Ensemble Stravaganza, plays a Louis Lagetto violin from 1750 with a bow from the Tourte family, also from 1750.
Composer Biography
Heinrich Ignaz von Biber, a significant 17th-century German composer, was described as a formidable violin virtuoso by the famous violin-maker Jacob Stainer.
Compositional Technique
Biber greatly contributed to the evolution of violin technique by pushing the limits of virtuosity and exploring 'scordatura' (alternative tunings) and elaborate expressive effects.
Performer Biography
Ensemble Stravaganza, a baroque ensemble, has won several awards, including the 3rd prize at the Premio Bonporti competition and the F.J. Aumann Prize at the H.I.F. Biber international competition.
Historical Context
In 17th-century Northern Europe, particularly in Austrian courts, musical life flourished, supported by music-loving emperors and artistic partnerships within the Holy Roman Empire.
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