Alboni, Marietta

ALBONI, Marietta, the most celebrated contralto of the 19th century, was born at Cesena, Romagna, in 1824. Her first instruction was received in her native place; after which she was taught by Mme. Bertoletti, at Bologna, who has taught many other distinguished singers. There she met Rossini, and was so fortunate as to obtain lessons from him: she is said to have been his only pupil. Charmed with her voice and facility, he taught her the principal contralto parts in his...