After the Thirty Years' War, musical culture in the Holy Roman Empire was supported by courts, churches, and the wealthy bourgeoisie in free cities and trade towns.
Performer Biography
The musicians of L'Armonia Sonora are recognized early music specialists who teach at various Dutch and international conservatories.
Historical Context
The 17th century, particularly after the Thirty Years' War, marked a significant cultural, political, and economic turning point in Europe.
Compositional Technique
The German sacred cantatas on this album, known as Geistliches Konzert, often feature string tremolos and instrumental repetition of soprano motifs to enhance textual expression.
Performer Biography
L'Armonia Sonora, the ensemble on this recording, was founded in 2004 by Mieneke van der Velden to perform cantatas with various vocal soloists.
Recording & Production
This recording was made possible by the generous support of the Nederlands Fonds voor Podiumkunsten, Zijfers-de Jong Fonds, and SNS REAAL Fonds.
Composer's Artistic Vision
17th-century sacred music, as exemplified by the works on this album, aimed to move the spirits of the faithful and open them to the word of God, rather than being an end in itself.
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