[…] A native of Lecce is said to be distinguishable from his fellow-subjects, by the heaviness of his manner, and the dullness of his apprehension. I dare not be so rash as to pronounce upon this point; having had, during my short stay among them, very little opportunity of conversing with the Leccians, or appreciating their parts and learning […] Yet music is here cultivated with a degree of enthusiasm. Many of the nobility are good performers, and proud of exhibiting their skill on solemn festivals. The Leccian music has s very plaintive character, peculiar to itself. The Dilettanti sing stanzas to the following tune, which is a specimen of their style; and I have frequently heard Improvisatori chant their extempore verses to it*. 

*Don Luigi serio of Naples is a very great genius in that line, and much superior to the celebrated Corilla, so well known to all the English that have been to Florence.