Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber (1644–1704) was a Bohemian composer who became Kapellmeister for Archbishop Maximilian Gandolph at Salzburg. Here we have two contrasting pieces, both performed by La Capella Reial de Catalunya and Le Concert des Nations, directed by Jordi Savall. “Battalia à 10” from 1673 was probably written for a festival and would have allowed Biber to show off his virtuoso violin playing. Think of Vivaldi and you get the idea. The Requiem is probably of more interest to us; it shows that Biber could handle the formal side of his position. This was probably written in 1687 following the death of the Archbishop and this recording is "the world première of the Requiem at Salzburg Cathedral." For those who collect Requiems this is a “Must Hear”. For those who have an interest in church music of the 17th century this is worth thinking about. The accompanying booklet is very well presented and the performance is excellent.

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