This glorious novel is set in Venice at the height of the splendour and decadence of the dying Republic.
Anna Maria dal Violin is one of the musicians cloistered in the Ospedale della Pieta where Antonio Vivaldi (the red priest) is maestro. Through Anna Maria's eyes, we observe Vivaldi at work, participate in some of the intrigues of life in the Ospedale and within Venice herself. In parallel, we accompany Anna Maria as she seeks to discover who she really is and where she came from.
This novel is wonderful on its own. It is also a splendid introduction to the musical life of 18th century Venice and Vivaldi himself. There are notes and a bibliography for those who wish to explore further. Best read while enjoying Vivaldi's music in the background, naturally.
Vivaldi's Virgins: A Novel 0060890525
Barbara Quick
HarperCollins
Vivaldi's Virgins: A Novel
Books
The music and mystery of 18th century Venice
This glorious novel is set in Venice at the height of the splendour and decadence of the dying Republic.
Anna Maria dal Violin is one of the musicians cloistered in the Ospedale della Pieta where Antonio Vivaldi (the red priest) is maestro. Through Anna Maria's eyes, we observe Vivaldi at work, participate in some of the intrigues of life in the Ospedale and within Venice herself. In parallel, we accompany Anna Maria as she seeks to discover who she really is and where she came from.
This novel is wonderful on its own. It is also a splendid introduction to the musical life of 18th century Venice and Vivaldi himself. There are notes and a bibliography for those who wish to explore further. Best read while enjoying Vivaldi's music in the background, naturally.
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