Composer

:

Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Sonata

Compose Date

:

1676

Publication Date

:

1905

Average_duration

:

8:46

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber's Mystery Sonata No. 7 in F major, also known as The Scourging, was composed in the late 17th century. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written between 1670 and 1680. The sonata is part of a collection of 15 sonatas known as the Rosary Sonatas or the Mystery Sonatas, which are based on the 15 mysteries of the Rosary. The Scourging is the seventh sonata in the collection and is based on the second mystery of the Rosary, the Scourging at the Pillar. The sonata is divided into six movements, each representing a different aspect of the mystery. The first movement, titled "The Scourging," is a fast and intense piece that represents the physical pain inflicted upon Jesus during the scourging. The second movement, "The Pillar," is a slower and more contemplative piece that represents the pillar to which Jesus was tied during the scourging. The third movement, "The Crown of Thorns," is a fast and virtuosic piece that represents the crown of thorns that was placed on Jesus' head. The fourth movement, "The Carrying of the Cross," is a slow and mournful piece that represents Jesus' journey to Calvary. The fifth movement, "The Crucifixion," is a powerful and dramatic piece that represents the crucifixion of Jesus. The final movement, "The Lamentation," is a slow and mournful piece that represents the mourning of Jesus' followers after his death. The Scourging is known for its use of scordatura tuning, which involves tuning the strings of the violin to a different pitch than usual. This creates a unique and haunting sound that is characteristic of Biber's music. The sonata also features a variety of techniques, including double stops, trills, and arpeggios, which showcase the virtuosity of the performer. Overall, The Scourging is a powerful and emotional work that captures the intensity and pain of the Scourging at the Pillar. Its use of scordatura tuning and virtuosic techniques make it a challenging and rewarding piece for performers and a masterpiece of Baroque music.

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