Play Book Tag discussion

The Instrumentalist by Harriet Constable - 4* - My Review

Set in Venice in the 17th century, this book tells the fictional story of a real person of history, Anna Maria della Pietà, who is left at an orphanage run by nuns and eventually studies under the renowned (but unnamed) maestro Antonio Vivaldi. She forms close bonds with a few other orphans. At the age of eight, she is offered an opportunity to learn to play an instrument and is found to possess an extraordinary gift for violin. She obtains a coveted place in the orchestra, eventually gaining first chair violin and secretly assisting her mentor in his compositions.

The story arc follows Anna Maria’s ambition and how it impacts her friendships. Her character is deeply developed, portraying Anna Maria as exceptionally talented, synesthetic, naïve, and impetuous. She is driven to achieve the status of a famous violinist and composer. Unfortunately, she lived in an age when women were seen as instrumentalists who were incapable of producing art, and her mentor is given credit for her achievements.

As mentioned in the author’s note, it highlights the contributions made by unknown female composers to our compendium of classical music. It also explores class differences of the era, and the many challenges facing people at the lower ranks. This is a book sure to please fans of classical music, especially those that feature unsung women in history.