Dr. Arne and Rule, BritanniaCummings, William Hayman
History
Dr. Arne and Rule, Britannia
Cummings, William Hayman
Arne, Thomas Augustine, 1710-1778
On the 26th of April a performance was given of the tragedy "Theodosius,
or the Force of Love." This play, written by Lee, was printed in
1680 with five songs and two choruses composed by Henry Purcell. The
libretto was revised for the Dublin performance. The announcement ran,
"At the particular Desire of several Persons of Quality, for the
Benefit of Mr. Barry, at the Theatre-royal in Smock-alley on Thursday
the 26th Inst. will be acted a Tragedy called Theodosius or the Force
of Love. The Part of Varanes to be performed by Mr. Barry, being the
first Time of his appearing in that Character. Tickets to be had at
Mr. Barry's in Skinner-Row.--As the original Songs, and Chorus's of
the Play were never performed in this Kingdom, for want of Musick and
Performances equal to such an Undertaking; Mr. Arne has been prevailed
upon to set the same to new Musick." Purcell's music was published in
1680; copies of it are now very rare. It consisted of five songs and
two choruses. Arne's music was never printed, and only one manuscript
score of it is known.[12] An examination of that copy shows that Arne
wrote music for nine pieces--four airs and five choruses, very short
movements. The words are not those set by Purcell, excepting one air
and one chorus. The solos are written for soprano and contralto voices;
the orchestration for strings, two oboes, and two horns.
The last appearance of Mr. and Mrs. Arne in Dublin, during the year
1744, was at the Great Room in Fishamble Street on Wednesday, the
30th of May, when "The Judgment of Paris" and "Alfred" were performed
for their joint benefits. Particulars respecting this event will be
found on page 124. The season being ended, Arne and his wife returned
to England, by way of Parkgate and Chester. During their stay in the
last named city the youth Charles Burney was introduced to Arne, and
having exhibited his skill as a performer on the harpsichord became
an articled pupil of the popular composer, with whom he journeyed to
London. Upon his arrival in the Metropolis, Arne resumed his connection
with Drury Lane Theatre as composer, and obtained an engagement there
for his wife as "Serious Singer." The year 1745 was a prosperous one
for both Arne and his wife--they were in constant employ at the Theatre
and in concerts.
On the 20th of March, Mrs. Arne had a benefit at Drury Lane Theatre,
when "Alfred" was performed for the first time in London. The details
of this interesting and memorable occasion will be given in connection
with "Rule, Britannia."
On the death of Gordon, the leader of the orchestra at Drury Lane, Arne
accepted the appointment which was virtually that of conductor. This
was a welcome addition to his importance and income.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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