Trust

by Hernan Diaz

A just did a lovely thing. Hired a string quartet from a Z hotel and put together a little recital in the library. Also brought hotel waiters, refreshments + juices, just like home. Invited director, drs. + other people I didn’t know. Short, predictable program. Reductions of Vivaldi’s “Spring,” followed by “Kleine Nachtmusik,” J. Strauss + other viennoiseries. Still, very touched by A’s gest. Despite the trite selection, it was plain the musicians were 1st rate. They somehow managed to “find” something even in that overtrodden répert. After perf., I approached them for a chat. Violist studied under Hindemith. Cellist played at Verein. 2nd violin collaborates regularly with Barcz. They all met in Berlin, but left after Hitler became chancellor. How lovely to talk to true artists! Told them they could come to me for whatever they needed. Cellist suggested, with shy humour, one-way tickets to America + visas for all. I said they could consider it done. A looked at me from the back of the room as I talked to the musicians. Stoically sulky. Just like back home.

Songs