Following a dispute with the court composer Heinichen in 1720, over an aria in the opera "Flavio Crispo", which led to his dismissal, Senesino was engaged by Handel as "primo uomo" (lead male singer) in his company, the Royal Academy of Music. He made his first appearance in a revival of "Radamisto" on 28 December, and his salary was variously reported as between £2000 and 3000 guineas: both vast sums. Senesino remained in London for much of the succeeding sixteen years. He became a friend and associate of many in the highest levels of society. He became friendly with, among others, the Duke of Chandos, Lord Burlington and the landscape designer William Kent, while amassing a fine collection of paintings, rare books, scientific instruments, and other treasures, including a service of silver made by the famous Paul de Lamerie.