Biber expertly applies symbolism and programmatic elements throughout the Mystery Sonatas, and his use of stylistic forms is unexpected. Dances, not normally associated with sacred music, dominate the collection, while tempo markings such as adagio and allegro are scarcely employed. Stylus phantasticus—that is, florid passagework in the solo instrument over an extended or sustained bass—is also used to great effect. The complexity of these devices and techniques is artfully integrated; what the listener hears is, simply, beautiful music.