The Black Swan at Home and Abroad: or, A Biographical Sketch of Miss Elizabeth Taylor Greenfield, the American VocalistAnonymous
General
The Black Swan at Home and Abroad: or, A Biographical Sketch of Miss Elizabeth Taylor Greenfield, the American Vocalist
Anonymous
Greenfield, Elizabeth Taylor, approximately 1819-1876
We had the pleasure of listening to this celebrated cantatrice last
evening, at Neil's New Hall. We have only three things to say of her
performance. The first is, that she was honoured with a crowded house,
composed of the most intelligent and enlightened of our citizens:
second, that all who heard her were exceedingly well pleased with all
her efforts; and third, that notwithstanding it is not claimed, either
by herself or friends, that she is an artistic singer, yet the compass
of her voice has rarely been equalled, and the sweetness of her notes
seemed to enchant every auditor.
Philadelphia, March 16th.
TO ELIZABETH GREENFIELD:--
Thy letter from Columbus came safely to hand, and it gave me
pleasure to hear thee is doing so well; and I hope it may continue
until thy return to our city.
In answer to thy inquiry about my parents, I am glad to say they
are both enjoying good health. Father is still busy by times, with
the old lady's estate, but it does not, as yet, seem to be near a
final settlement.
It is true that Mr. Richards has received her money, as it was for
services rendered to aunt Betsey--not from having been left any
thing in the will. But all the legatees, of which thee is one, will
have to wait until the whole business is concluded. It has been
very trying and tedious to all concerned; but I hope, ere long, the
right thing will be brought about, and thee will then receive what
is thy due. Judge Jones has been appointed in J. Bouvier's
place--is an able and excellent man, and will no doubt do all he
can to hasten the settlement of the whole affair.
Thy friend,
D. T. HOWELL.
American House, March 5th, 1852.
EDITOR OF THE REPUBLIC:--
We have been favoured this afternoon, together with some ladies,
with a private musical entertainment by Miss E. T. Greenfield,
known as the "Black Swan"--and words would fail us to do her voice
justice, even were she _white_.
Never having heard the renowned Madame Goldschmidt, we can draw no
comparison between the Swan and her fairer Swedish rival; but
however she may compare with her, allow us to say she has the most
varied and powerful voice it has yet been our fortune to hear. She
gave us first the arietta, "Where are now the Hopes I've
cherished?" accompanying her voice with the guitar--which, as well
as the harp and piano, she uses very skilfully. This song, though
easy of execution, is charmingly sweet and plaintive--and how it
could be better performed than upon this occasion, it is difficult
to imagine. Every heart present was thrilled with her tones, which
flowed from her lips like gems.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your thoughts on this work.
Join the Discussion
Join the discussion
Sign in to leave a comment or review.
Sign InorCreate an account