from one of the galleries accommodating the richly decorated
private boxes. But then he finds himself irritated beyond measure
by the behaviour of the people up there, more interested in the latest
gossip or the quality of the champagne – always, of course, flowing
copiously – than the performance itself. The Giordanos are an
exception. Although he has never shared a box with them, he can
usually observe them from whichever one he is in and they are
always listening attentively. The talk in the corridors is that they
regularly host concerts in their sumptuous mansion far from the
busy city centre of Turin, and that Signora Giordano in particular
lends financial support to musicians whenever she can. Given all
this, Professor Gentili cherishes high hopes of the present
conversation. Clearing his throat softly, he takes a sip of water. He
has politely declined the offer of coffee; over recent years it has
given him heartburn.
He resumes his story. ‘Well now, this Antonio Vivaldi has
preoccupied me intensely over recent years. I will spare you the
details, for you are a busy man. Suffice it to say I guarantee my
words will be of interest to you!’
Filippo glances quickly at his watch, a stylishly designed Patek
Philippe given him by his wife years before, and nods to Professor
Gentili to proceed. As is his habit, the factory director plucks a
cigarette from his silver cigarette case, then offers one to the
professor.
‘No, thank you. I don’t smoke.’
Filippo frowns coldly, drawing together heavy eyebrows in
which the first grey hairs are just becoming visible. He lights his
cigarette, filling the room with the sharp aroma of Lebanese
tobacco. With his first deep draw, fragile wreaths of smoke begin
slowly to spiral up towards the high ceiling. Giordano leans back
relaxed in his chair and gestures with his hand that Gentili should
recommence his story.
‘No one would blame you for never having heard of this
composer. The name Antonio Vivaldi is long lost in the mists of
time. Today only one or two people are familiar with his name and
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