Musical Reminiscences: Containing an Account of Italian Opera in England, From 1773. The Fourth Edition, Continued to the Present Time, and Including The Festival in Westminster Abbey.

urn:iso:std:iso:639:ed-3:eng

249-51

text excerpt

The first female performer I shall mention, as incontestibly the best, is Madame Caradori, of whom my opinion has been given so fully before, that it is unnecessary to add more than that she sang with her usual excellence, and was well heard, although it was feared her voice would not be strong enough for so large a space. This was by no means the case; she gave universal satisfaction […]

The next place must be given to Miss Stephens, […] It would be flattery to say she sung as well as she formerly did, the change in her voice made that impossible, as it has lost in extent as well as power; but when she performed songs of moderate compass, and easy ex­ecution, she was still very agreeable, and left little to be desired. When obliged, as she injudiciously was, to attempt others of a higher description, she certainly failed, and could not give them with sufficient force.

The third in order was Madame Stockhausen, a very good singer and musician, but hardly strong enough for the higher styles of music. She has gained great favour here, by the exquisite taste and expression with which she sings national Swiss airs, than which (as I am told) nothing can be more delightful. Her skill and science enable her, however, to sing always well.

excerpt from 'Musical Reminiscences: Containing an Account of Italian Opera in England, From 1773. The Fourth Edition, Continued to the Present Time, and Including The Festival in Westminster Abbey.' pp. 249-51 (224 words)

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