Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber

Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber (1644-1704) was a Bohemian-Austrian composer and violinist, one of the most significant composers for the violin in the history of the instrument. He was born in the small Bohemian town of Wartenberg and rapidly rose to prominence, eventually serving as Kapellmeister at the prince-archbishopric court at Salzburg. Biber was known for his virtuosity on the violin and is recognized for his contribution to the technique of scordatura, a method of altering the tuning of the strings to achieve unique acoustic effects and colorations.

Biber's compositions cover a wide range of genres, including sonatas, sacred choral works, and operas. However, he is most celebrated for his "Mystery (Rosary) Sonatas," which are a series of fifteen sonatas for violin and continuo with an additional passacaglia for solo violin. These works are notable for their inventiveness, technical demands, and the rich use of scordatura. "Missa Salisburgensis à 54 voci," another landmark piece, is an opulent, polychoral composition which showcases Biber's mastery in handling a grand scale musical architecture. Heinrich Biber's works continue to fascinate performers and audiences alike, offering a glimpse into the baroque virtuosity and the emotional depth of the 17th century's instrumental and vocal music.

Genres

Baroque

Bohemian Baroque

Classical

Early Music

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Latest Release

Just Biber

Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber•

Rachel Podger•

Brecon Baroque

Album - 34 Tracks - Released July 4, 2025