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After
having introduced us to immortal composers and pieces of classical music,
Bassi travels back in time to encounter the musicians who have left
their mark over the centuries. In these "Impossible Interviews", the
author and the reader explore the personality of these great men who
we only know as artists.
My
Impossible Interviews take me on fantastic journeys through time and
one such interview could not fail to be with the great and mythical
Luigi Boccherini. My chance came in Paris in 1767 when the composer
found himself in the French capital for professional reasons. I met
him in the home of the Baron de Bagge, during one of his many receptions.
Bassi
- You're here too then, maestro?
Boccherini
- Yes, why shouldn't I be here?
Bassi
- Oh, nothing! I'm delighted to see that you too are a friend of the
famous Baron de Bagge. However, if it's no trouble, I'd like to ask
you a few questions.
Boccherini - We've got to pass the time somehow. How can I help?
Bassi
- You're young and famous. What does it feel like to be known by so
many people here in Paris?
Boccherini
- I'm surprised more than anything. I didn't realise my music was good
enough to be known abroad. I have written music in the best Italian
tradition such as cantata and oratorio and I expect my style was appreciated
by experts and the general public.
Bassi
- Can you honestly tell me why you're in Paris?
Boccherini
- Anywhere else I would tell you to mind your own business, but since
this is a special occasion and I like you, my answer is that I am here
for the same reason as everybody else. I am trying to get into the "Concerts
Spirituels". It would be a great achievement since it is the ambition
of every musician in search of honour and distinction. I have made plans
and Paris could be a stepping stone.
Bassi
- How long are you thinking of staying in France?
Boccherini - At least a year. I want to meet all the people I need to
know to achieve my objective.
Bassi
- This is a magical time for music and you're also surrounded by Haydn
and Mozart. What do you think of this situation?
Boccherini
- I agree that this is a favourable time for music and I believe I am
partly responsible for this revival. Being surrounded by great composers
stimulates me to produce more music and helps in my quest for originality
and innovation, especially in instrumental music which I am particularly
fond of.
Bassi
- Did you have a happy childhood?
Boccherini
- Of course! I also had a great father who taught me the basic notions
of music. He was an understanding and enthusiastic teacher and I now
miss him dearly.
Bassi
- Can you tell me a little about one of your musical projects?
Boccherini
- I'm due to take part in a "Concert Spirituel" next year, and precisely
on 20 March 1769. Let's hope it will be a success.
Bassi
- Dear maestro, thank you for talking to me.
Boccherini
- Finished already? Just when I was beginning to enjoy myself!
(traduzione
Interpres Sas - Giussano)
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