| Friends & Family |
| After the performance, the string player holds his/her instrument and "they" both bend over to signify that without the unanimated contributor the performance would have been quite less satisfying. The pianist, for similar reasons, puts his/her left hand on the front corner of the piano facing the public; here the instrument does not bow, but the meaning is still there. The tradition of having vocalists point at their throats never gained popularity. With comparable intentions, the novelist gives regards to (too) many at the beginning of the book; frequently, close family members are the recipients of this honor. |
| It would be impossible for a contemporary Serenus Zeitblom writing on Antonio Janigro not to follow this honorable tradition, and remind that two towering females were the physical, moral and spiritual energy of virtually every corner of his life. Maria Cavo, his mother, was a domineering figure who was instrumental (no pun intended) for his cello education and early successes. I have no doubt, having known both fairly well, that Antonio would not have chosen to become a cello soloist had this familial influence been lessened. |
| Neda Cihlar, his wife for almost half a century, was the pillar of his later years, her tangible daily support and influence growing stronger with the waning of maternal influences. Neda, unlike Maria, was cherished by most if not all for her kindness, wit and intelligence; Maria, smarter than most, was unpalatable for the weak of heart for her character was shaped by a maniacal determinism and stubbornness. Neda's fights with Antonio are now legendary, and almost everyone who ever entertained the Janigros can recall at least a specific one. This said, the fact that they died a few months apart, gives credibility to the notion that indeed this was a marriage made to last! |
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