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In Douglas the venues for concerts were the Assembly Room, Mr. Bank's Dancing Room (late the theatre) near the top of the Quay, Mr. Downward's Room (which I assume is the same as Mr. Banks' Dancing Room) as the address is the same and finally the Assembly Room, Fort Street.
Philip La Glace was French and first arrived on the Island in 1786 and became immersed in the entertainments offered for the delight of the gentry. He was a violinist, an accompanist, a conductor, a teacher of French and a Dance Master. He appears in all these guises (See Concerts, Theatricals and Dance Masters) On the 20th of May 1794 he organised a vocal and instrumental concert in the Assembly Room, Douglas, himself accompanying on the violin. His fellow performers were Miss Fontenelle, Mrs. Ross, Mr. Shaw and Mr Scriven. In the section on theatricals the same names are found as members of Mr. Williamson's company of actors. The Manx Mercury reported that, "The Concert on Thursday last was very brilliantly attended; and the performances in general were honoured with the highest approbation. As usual, in different pieces, Mr. La Glace, displayed a delicacy of taste, and strength of judgment, that place his abilities as a professor far above common compliment."
This well established dancing master and musician organized another concert of vocal and instrumental music on Friday the 11 th September 1801 at the Assembly Room, Douglas. Mr. La Glace had a supporting cast of several local ladies and gentlemen who had given their services. He played several solos on the violin by the eminent composers of the day and he entertained the audience with a number of familiar airs with variations by himself. The report in the Manx Advertiser said that, "At the conclusion of the concert he held a free Ball."
A concert scheduled for the 22 March 1804 had to be postponed as one of the principal performers was off the Island. It was rescheduled for 19th April. There were no details of what was performed on that occasion or who the unnamed principal performer was.
A strange name Lantihw and there is no clue as to his origin. He first appears in August 1811 in an advertisement for a concert of vocal music to be held at Mr. Banks, the Dance Master's dancing room which was the old theatre and situated at the top of the Quay in Douglas. He was well connected in the theatre world having played at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, London. He was supported on stage by Master Holiday who joined him in duets. This must be the same young gentleman whose name I found ion the cast of the theatre company run by Mr. Moss, the actor manager of the theatre. Here is the programme of songs,
Part 1 - Song, Young Henry by Mr. Lantihw Paddy's Journey by Master Holiday Then Farewel My Trim Built Wherry by Mr. L.
Margery Toppin by Master H.
The Heart that can feel for another by Mr. L.
Part 2 - Tell her I love her by Mr. L. Cake Man by Master H.
The Twins of Latona by Mr. L. Ballinasad by Master H. When Vulcan forg'd the bolts of Jove by Mr. L.
Part 3 - When Generous Wine expands the Soul by Mr. L. Duet All's Well by Mr. L. and a Gentleman
Post Captain by Mr. L. Prim bang up by a Gentleman Finale - Rule Britannia Mr. L. A Ball - to begin with a hornpipe, by a GentlemanDoors to be open at seven o'clock, to begin at half-past. - Tickets, 3s.6d. each, to be had of Mr. Lantihw, and at the principle Inns
The concert was well received and the Advertiser reports in its columns, "Mr. Lantihw's concert last night afforded a treat to a respectful number of amateurs who, with the whole of the audience, seemed highly gratified with the evening's entertainment. His songs, 'The Post Captain' and 'When Vulcan Forg'd the Bolts of Jove', met with unbounded applause and in the singing of which he displayed that power of voice which has rendered him so great a favourite in London and other places where he has exercised his musical talents. Master Holiday's exertions in the comic style seemed to give great satisfaction. - We understand he (Mr. Lantihw) intends shortly to have another concert, in which he will be accompanied by a piano forte."
On Friday 27th September he and young Master Holiday repeated their performances to the delight of the public that attended Mr. Banks' room. "Mr. Lantihw's vocal concert, last night, was well attended with a numerous and respectful audience. Mr. Lantihw's songs were sung with great power and taste, and managed in scientific manner. His voice is so unaccountably strong, with a sweet tone, that astonished several amateurs who were present; but we recommend him to have a piano forte for his next, as it will be a great improvement. And likewise to lower his prices, for they are extravagantly high for the Isle of Man. Master Holiday, with his usual humour, gave great satisfaction to every hearer." Mr. Lantihw introduced a new song entitled "Black Ey'd Susan"
Such was their success that they were back at the old theatre for a repeat performance on Thursday the 17th October. Their last concert of the season in Douglas was on the 12th November. The advertisement advised that they would be accompanied on that occasion on the piano and violin. They added five new songs to the repertoire; 'The Glasses Sparkle round the Board', 'The Steamlet that Flowed Round her Cot', 'The Tinker,' 'The Storm,' and 'All's Well'. Mr. Lantihw had a second string to his fiddle for in the advertisement for the November concert it is mentioned that tickets may be had of Mr. Lantihw at his hatter's shop situated at the corner of the Chapel and Market Place in Douglas. He took the advice of the newspaper critic and reduced the price of the tickets at these performances, to 2s. for Boxes and 1 s for the Pit seats.
Their last concert in 1811 was on the 21 st November at the Theatre in Peel. Here they repeated their concert and added the song, "What a Beauty I Grow".
Mr. Lantihw and Master Holiday were back on stage at Mr. Downward's room, known as the old theatre, situated at the top of the Quay in Douglas for a concert in March 1812. The only programme change since the previous year was an additional song entitled "the Thorn". He continued his trade as a hat maker whilst entertaining in the evenings.
Mr. Gray was the church organist at the Castletown chapel. He organized an ambitious Oratorio at the Chapel on Tuesday the 31 st December 1811 with selections from famous composers, namely Handel and Hayden. Several gentlemen from Douglas came to perform in this concert. Mr. Gray was the conductor and the organ was played by an unnamed gentleman. The doors opened at 11 o'clock and the performance began at 12 o'clock. Here is the programme:
Part I. - Overture, Occasional Oratorio by a Gentleman.
Opening of the Oratorio, Creation. - Haydn.
Recitative - In the Beginning God Created.
Chorus - And the Spirit of God.
Recitative - And God saw the light.
Air. - Now Vanish before the Holy Beam.
Chorus. - A New Created World Messiah - Handel.
Air. - And Thou didst not Leave his Soul. Redemption, - Handel.
Air. - Lord, Remember David.
Part II - Concerto on Organ, by a gentleman Redemption, - Handel
Air. - Angels Ever Bright and Fair. Messiah, - Handel
He Shall Feed His Flock. Redemption, - Handel Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty. Messiah, - Handel
Chorus. - Lift up Your heads.
Part III. - Handel's celebrated Grand Concerto by a gentleman Redemption, - Handel
Air. - O Magnify the Lord Opening - Messiah - Handel
Recitative - Comfort Ye My People.
Air. - Every Valley Shall be Exalted
Grand Chorus - Messiah - HallelujahTickets for admission 5s. each to be had of Mr. Gray, and at the shops of Messrs Callow and Co. and Harrison, Castletown, and from the printer of this paper. Those ladies and gentlemen who may not have seats at the Chapel, may be accommodated by applying to Mr. Gray previous to the performance.
The Manx Advertiser for the 4th January. 1812 was ecstatic in its review;
"Oratorio - On Tuesday 31 st ult. at Castletown Chapel. A grand oratorio of sacred music was performed, for the benefit of Mr. Gray, the organist; upon which occasion nearly 50 guineas was collected. It was numerously and most respectfully attended. Personages of the first rank and fashion honoured the occasion with their presence; and were highly gratified. In short, the whole performance could not fail to afford universal satisfaction.
No amateur of sacred music but must have been enravished at the full-toned and prolong notes of that sweet harmonist Miss Jones. Never, (observes a correspondent,) did I hear that description of Milton's so well exemplified
'In notes on may a winding bout
Of linked sweetness long drawn out:
The melting voice through mazes running
Untwisting all the chains that tie
The hidden soul of harmony.'It were superfluous to say any thing in commendation of Mrs. Gray, whose musical powers are so well and so generally approved.
'That when she rais'd the vocal lay, 'The captive soul was charmed away.' But we must not withhold our tribute to the gentleman who played 'The deep majestic solemn organ,' the more particularly as it was a disinterested undertaking meant solely to assist and to please. And never, surely, was any thing heard more sublimely correct. The execution was extremely judicious and tenderly impressive. Soft as the breezy vibrations of the Aeolian harp or the melodious tremors of the voluptuous lyre; whole the solemn dignity of sacred poetry was preserved throughout with the most exquisite judgment. The lengthened note - the awful pause - the angelic climax, were well distinguished; when was heard,
'---------- the pealing organ blow To the full voice quire below;
In service high, the anthem clear; Infusing sweetness thro' the ear!'
To Mr. Gray, himself, each auditor must have felt considerably indebted for his masterly exertions. The whole arrangement was, under his guidance, unexceptionable; and had Handel's self been there he could not have but approved of the promptitude, the propriety, and the taste with which the beauties of scientific harmony were displayed. The grand chorus on the Messiah was executed in superior style - the graduations of devout ardour - the masculine elevation of the sentiment which every voice uttered, and every swelling note expressed, at once captivated, astonished, and delighted the admiring audience.
The scenery contributed not a little to the ecstasy of the occasion. The modest, yet elegant appearance of the Orchestra - the beautiful costume - the tout ensemble - was peculiarly calculated to impress, to awaken, and to cherish the 'holy passion' of sacred fervour in the breast of the devout:
It is to be wished, and it is hoped, from this specimen of what the sons of Apollo can perform, that a repetition may be afforded on some future occasion. Every lover of moral and religious improvement feels a secret wish to encourage amusements, which, as they have so beneficial an effect on the manners of society, tend at the same time to raise the affections to Him who is 'the giver of every good and perfect gift."'
The reference to the sons of Apollo refers to that multitalented Greek god who had as one of his attributes music. I wonder if the local gentry who formed the choir formed themselves into the society mentioned under the section on Fraternities?
Mr. Gray organized another Oratorio in November 1812 at the Castletown Chapel by the kind permission of the Lord Bishop. The preacher on that occasion was the Rev. Mr. R. M. Mant. The oratorio began at 6 o'clock and the price of a ticket was 2s.6d.
The following year Mr. Gray pulled out the stops once again to produce another oratorio in the Castletown Chapel on the 16th September 1813. The evening was again received with general applause for the selection from the composers Handel, Haydn and Kent. The augmented choir performed again and the Rev. R. M. Mant preached the sermon. On this occasion a Mr. Barrow played the organ.
The newspaper announced in August 1812, "A charity sermon, on behalf of the Lancastrian Daily and Sunday Schools, of this town, will be preached on Sunday the 29th instant, and a selection of sacred music, from Handel's Oratorio Messiah, will be performed on this occasion," and the advertisement reported, "at St. George's Chapel, on Sunday the 30th instant a sermon will be preached by the Rev. John Nelson, Vicar of Jurby, and a collection made, for the benefit of the Lancastrian Daily and Sunday Schools. A selection of sacred music, from Handle's Oratorio, The Messiah, will be performed, and appropriate psalms sung by the children. Service to commence at 11 o'clock in the forenoon. The public are respectfully requested to visit the schools, particularly on Sundays, between the hours of four and five in the afternoon. Gentlemen will attend at the doors of the chapel, to accommodate those persons who are not proprietors of seats."
I should perhaps explain here that people rented their seats in church. Pew letting gave an annual income to the church and those who did not attend St George's Church would be directed to the "free pews" so that church patrons would not loose their seats or visitors be embarrassed by being asked to move. I believe that this was still in operation in the Methodist church in the 1950s and in some of the older buildings of the Methodist and parish Churches little metal name card holders can still be seen at the end of the long pews.
The young gentlemen of the Douglas Grammar School which was situated in King Street, Douglas, presented an Oratorio at the Assembly Room, Douglas on Monday the 17th May 1813. Their conductor was Mr. Barton, the Headmaster, and the entertainment was entitled, "A Grand Juvenile Divertissement", (the French word for entertainment.) The programme consisted of,
Harragues, Orations, Dialogues in Latin and English, Dissertations, Prologues, Tales, and Effusions
Part 1 - An Occasional Address Master Smythe, jun.
Henry VIth to his soldiers, at the siege of Harfleur (in character), Master Gawne Alexander's Feast, (with musical accompaniment) Master Clarke Malefort's Defence Master Clague
Dialogue from the Clandestine Marriage (in character) Masters Philip Moore and Barton
General Wolf to his Army Master Richardson Prologue to Barbarossa (in character) Master Marshall Collin's Ode on the Passions (with a musical accompaniment) Master Barton, Sen. Sforza, Duke of Milan, pleading his cause before Emperor Charles V (in character) Master Barrow
Farmer's Blunder Master Cannell Othello's Apology Mater Head Monsieur Touson's Tale, as delivered at Freemasons' Hall, Master Barron, Jun. Douglas to Lord Randolph Master Smythe, jun.
Dialogue from the Earl of Warwick (in character) Masters Philip Moore and Richardson
Part II - Trial of Shylock, a scene from the Merchant of Venice (in character) Masters Clarke, Barrow, Head, Richardson, Gawne, Barton, Sen., Smythe and Barron, Jun.
Dissertation on law (in character) Master Clarke Eliza, a tale by Darwin Master Palmer Old Cheese, a tale Master Clague Dialogue in Latin, from Terrance, (in character) Masters Head, Barton, Jun. and Palmer
Hamilton's Instructions to the Players Master Marshall Progress of Life Master Gawne
Rolla's Address o the Peruvians (in character) Master Moore poetical effusion Young Whipstich, a tale Master Barrow
Brutus on the Death of Caesar Master Smythe Jun.
Dialogue from Tamerlane the Great (in character) Masters Palmer and Barton, jun. Prologue to the Author Master Cannell
To Conclude with
British Loyalty, or a Squeeze for St. Paul's, (in character) being a poetical effusion written on His present Majesty's going to St. Paul's, to return thanks after his first indisposition, Master Barton, Sen.
Popular airs of Rule Britannia and God Save the King by the young gentlemen, in chorus, accompanied by the Volunteer Band.
To say that the writers of the columns in the Manx Advertiser were enthused with praise would be putting it mildly as demonstrated by the quotations from the articles: Manx Advertiser 15.05.1813 "We understand that the public will be gratified on Monday with a display of Oratory by the young gentlemen of the Douglas Grammar School, pupils of Mr. Barton, who it appears has spared neither trouble nor expense on the occasion. The Assembly-room will be elegantly fitted up with a stage and scenery, in every respect similar to a small theatre, while the most splendid characters, dresses and regal costumes, added to the martial harmony of the Volunteer's Band, will tend to brighten the brilliance of the evening; and we have no doubt but the whole will terminate with considerable ëclat."
Manx Advertiser 22.05.1813, "We never witnessed a scene so truly interesting as that displayed by the pupils of Mr. Barton, at the Assembly Rom, on Monday evening; the graceful attitudes and gestures - the refined mode of delivery - and the powerful yet chaste declamation, the most impartial stranger can but admire. Several of the juvenile orators, not to mention names, would have done honour to the dignified scenes of life, and perhaps a future day may fill those high departments, the vestiges of which they have so marvellously explored. - The most brilliant and fashionable assemblage of ladies and gentlemen were present, who, during the delivery of the orations, alternately expressed their sympathy and testified their bursting applause. - The dresses were truly magnificent, and every character was sustained with the greatest energy, manliness, and heroism; not an error was committed though the whole evening, and we may with truth assert, that Douglas has never before experienced a fete so novel and interesting."
Mr. Barton, the Headmaster, must have been fond of dancing for I found an article in a newspaper dated 7th September 1820 recording an unfortunate accident he had whilst endeavouring to leave the venue, "We regret to state, that, Mr. Barton, school master of this town, on going out of the Assembly-room last night, after the Ball, unfortunately fell from a door, at the gable of the building, which had been opened to ventilate the room, by which accident he had his thigh fractured, and was otherwise seriously injured. We are however happy to add that hopes are entertained of his recovery."
No doubt his pupils made sport of the poor man's accident for as T. E. Brown was to pen many years later, "I do believe the cruellest fien's in all the world are a parcel of boys in their teens".
The newspaper announced that there was a musical phenomena appearing at Whitehaven during June 1816, the three Misses Smith. It was reported that within a week they would be in Douglas for two performances and then moving on to the other towns. Apparently their performances were a juvenile treat of harmonic excellence which would surpass anything of the kind ever before witnessed in the town. They would be appearing at the spacious public room belonging to Mr. Geneste.
In May 1817 Mr. and Mrs. Melville brought their concert party to the Assembly room in Fort Street, Douglas.
The programme consisted of vocal music interspersed with recitations. It mentions that Mrs. Melville was late Mrs. Hill. The Melvilles advertised themselves as of the Theatre Royal, Covent Garden, Edinburgh, Bath, Liverpool, Dublin, etc., etc., etc.......
Mrs. Melville also offered her services as a teacher of the pianoforte and singing; "and should she meet with encouragement will be happy to remain for some time in this Island." She introduced herself as, "Being honoured with the patronage of the Duchess of Leeds and many of the principal nobility and gentry in England and from her having been a pupil of the celebrated Rauzzini, and likewise of Mrs. Miles of Bath, (who has so eminently distinguished for her musical talents and who had the honour of instructing Her Royal Highness the Princess of Wales) flatters herself that her method of teaching will be approved of by those ladies who may honour her with their commands."
Mr. Melville offered to teach elocution,
"Mr. Melville having made elocution his study and during his residence in Edinburgh, Scarborough, &c, &c, been successfully engaged in giving instruction in that necessary and elegant part and polite education to the most respectable families, and will be happy to render any assistance in his power to the inhabitants of the Isle of Man; who, upon reference to him, will find that his terms are moderate, and his system simple and comprehensive."
The reporter in the issue of the 7th August 1817 gushed about the forthcoming performances of Mr. Crowther and Miss Smith, "The lovers of harmony and admirers of musical excellence will have a charming treat tomorrow night in witnessing the performance of Mr. Crowther and the celebrated Miss Smith, who, if we may credit report, are unrivalled in their attractions; and as an entertainment of the kind so seldom occurs in this Island, we may fairly presume that they will have an overflowing house."
Positively for one night only Mr. Crowther Of the Theatre Royal Bath, Plymouth and Dock, Most respectfully informs the inhabitants of Douglas and its environs that at the request of several Ladies and Gentlemen he has visited the Isle of Man, and proposes giving One Night's Entertainment Consisting of Music, Recitations, Songs, &c. &c, At the Assembly-room, Douglas, On Friday night, the 8th August, Which will include the inimitable Miss Smith, (allowed to be the first female violin performer in the United Kingdom) who gave such universal satisfaction last year, at the Theatre, Whitehaven, and whom Mr. Crowther has engaged at considerable expense. The following pieces on the violin, The Cuckoo Solo La Roi a la Chase or description of a storm. Miss Smith will accompany herself in the piano forte, and sing the admired songs of Sweet Jersey, Robin Adair and the Soldier Tired of Wars Alarm A young gentleman of this town will sing the following songs; - Death of Abercromby, Woodpecker, and the Bold Smuggler.
The whole to conclude with a laughable interlude Boxes 2s.6d. - Pit, 1 s.6d - Gallery Is. Doors to be open at 7 o'clock, and to begin at 8. Tickets to be had at the printers.
Mr. C. Proposes performing at Castletown, on Wednesday, at Peel on Thursday, and at Ramsey of Saturday.
An announcement appeared in the Manx Advertiser dated 18th March 1819,
"It has been intimated to us that Mr. Ashley, accompanied by some of the first-rate musical performers in London, intends visiting this Island next Autumn, and will give a Grand Musical Festival, - Preparatory to which, Mr. Parrin, organist from Penrith, intends being in Douglas early next month, in his professional business and to make arrangements for the intended festival. - We understand that Mr. Parrin was tuner for some years at Messrs Broadwood, Stodart and Kirkman's London, for whom he is a present an agent."- and in his advertisement in the same issue of the paper we read, "Mr. Parrin, Organist, Penrith, most respectfully begs leave to acquaint the gentry and inhabitants of the Isle of Man that he intends visiting the Island early in April for the purpose of tuning and repairing piano fortes; and being agent for Messrs Broadwood, Stodart, and Kirkman, piano forte manufacturers, London, begs leave to state to those families who may honour him with their commands that the strictest attention will be paid by him in selecting instruments of the best quality and tone. Letters addressed to Mr. Jefferson, will be duly tended to."
In April the newspaper reporter writes, "It will be gratifying to the amateurs of music to be informed that Mr. Parrin, organist from Penrith has just arrived for the purpose of making arrangements for a Grand Concert here, at the instance Mr. Ashley, of London, of musical celebrity, who intends visiting this Island, on his way to Edinburgh, in the course of the summer. Mr. P. during his short stay here, will repair piano fortes, for those who choose to avail themselves of his professional talents 'Mr. G. F. Parrin, returning his most grateful thanks to the nobility and gentry of this Island, for the polite attention he has met with, on account of Mr. Ashley, Director of Oratorios of Covent Garden Theatre, in London; who has in contemplation to visit this Island next autumn, (on his tour to Edinburgh) when he proposes giving his Oratorios of Sacred Music, in St. George's Chapel, in the morning, and his Concert, at the Assembly Rooms, in the evening."'
By July the reporter further writes, "The lovers of music will be gratified to learn that Mr. Parrin, Organist, of Penrith, intends revisiting this Island in the course of the present month and will be accompanied by several gentlemen of the Harmonic Society of Whitehaven for the purpose of giving three miscellaneous concerts of vocal and instrumental music which cannot fail of proving a treat to the inhabitants at large, and particularly to the amateurs of Douglas. - who will probably volunteer their services on the occasion."
July the 22nd newspaper report set the dates for the 18th and 19th of August
"Grand Concert. Mr. Parrin, Organist, of Penrith, begs leave to acquaint the Ladies and Gentlemen of Douglas and its vicinity that he proposes giving two Grand Miscellaneous Concerts consisting of Vocal and Instrumental Music at Mr. Dixon's
Assembly-room on Wednesday and Thursday, August 18 and 19. Leader of the band - Mr. Orre. Full particulars will be given in future advertisements. - Performances to commence precisely at half-past seven o'clock. Tickets for the two evenings' performances, 7s. - Single Night 5s. - may be had of Mr. Jefferson, Printer, Duke- street, and Mr. Dixon, British Hotel"
However the leader of the Band, Mr. Ore, fell ill and the concert had to be postponed and rescheduled. I do not know whether it came into being or not for I could find no record of it taking place. It must have taken place as Mr. Parrin is organising another concert in July1820, "Mr. Parrin, the musician, who visited this Island last summer, intends this season to accompany the celebrated Incledon on a tour". The 'celebrated Incledon' refers to the Cornish singer Charles Benjamin Incledon, (1763 - 1826) who was the Principal English tenor at Covent Garden at that time. It was he that taught Edmund Kean music. I cannot find evidence of him visiting the Island and maybe there was group of singers touring under his name. "They are to proceed to Dublin in the month of July; and, along with a select band of first-rate performers, will take this Island in their route. The amateurs of music will rejoice at so fair an opportunity of forming a concert or an oratorio. For the approved judgment and taste which certain gentlemen of this town have evinced in the science of harmony, we form great expectations. How easy may accommodations be afforded for an oratorio; and what a fine filed of scientific display would be the performance of an Incledon, attended by a chosen choir, afford for all energies of musical talent and ability!"
Meanwhile Mr. Parrin drums up business to sell and repair instruments,
"Mr. Parrin, Organist, Workington most respectfully begs leave to acquaint the gentry of Douglas and its vicinity that he has received a large assortment of new music, music paper, Violin and violin-cello strings, foreign and English; bridges, (best and common); tale and finger boards, &c., &c; likewise a remarkable fine brilliant toned square piano forte - 6 octaves - with patent action, upright dampers, and damper pedal; the case banded with zebra and rosewood; with drawers and an embossed leather cover to Do.
Mr. Parrin proposes visiting the Island on or about the 30tx' instant; and as his stay will only be for two or three days (during the time of the packet) orders left for him, in the interim, at the British Hotel, or forwarded to him in Workington, will be strictly attended to. N. B. Piano fortes tuned, repaired, or taken in exchange. Workington, May 1, 1820"
He takes an advertisement in the Manx Advertiser dated 29th June, 1820, in which he notifies that he has engaged the Italian singers and musicians Signor and Madame Rivolta who were accomplished on many musical instruments,
"Mr. Parrin, Organist, Workington has the honour to inform the ladies and gentlemen of Douglas and its vicinity that various unforeseen accidents have prevented him the pleasure of waiting on them for their favours, as per advertisement.
G. F. P. is most anxious to promote the amusements of his friends on the Island, begs leave to state that he has engaged the celebrated Signor and Madame Rivolta from the Theatre Royal, London, and Italian Opera House, Milan, to visit this Island with him about the middle of next month, July; when he proposes giving two grand musical entertainments consisting of vocal and instrumental music, at the Assembly Rooms,
British Hotel. Signor Rivolta, having had the honour of performing before His present Majesty, at the fetes at Carlton-house, and most of the Nobility of the United Kingdom, at Vauxhall Gardens, for three years, upon six, seven and eight instruments at the same time. Added to which Madame Rivolta, late pupil of Signor G. Lonza, will exert her vocal abilities. Mr. Barrow has kindly consented to preside at the grand piano forte. Full particulars will be given in the next advertisement
Workington, June 26,1820"
The reporter praises the musical talents of both the Rivoltas, "The lovers of music will no doubt be highly gratified on Monday and Tuesday next, in witnessing the extraordinary performance of Signor Rivolta upon eight instruments at one time, accompanied with the vocal abilities of Madame Rivolta whose musical talents have gained them the patronage of most of the Nobility of the United Kingdom", and again in the next issue,
"The town has been highly favoured and agreeably amused by the small band of performers at Mr. Dixon's, Assembly Room, which exhibited such a displayed of harmonic powers on the nights of the 17th and 18th. The concerts were attended by the first personages and seemed to give much satisfaction; particularly the novella and ingenious performance on nine instruments at one time, by Signor Rivolta. To enumerate the peculiar excellencies with distinguished the several performers, we feel inadequate; but if we were to judge of the feelings of others by our own, we should not hesitate to express our great admiration of the talents and abilities of this select choir. - We understand it is their intention to give a concert at Castletown this evening; and at Ramsey in the course of next week."
The advertisement lists the programme for a concert that took place in the Ramsey, "An extraordinary vocal and instrumental concert will be performed during the ensuing week in Ramsey by the celebrated Signor and Madame Rivolta
Part First
1. Prelude from the Overture to Lodoiska, with an allegretto
2. An Allemand, with an Italian monfrina
3. Several Prussian waltzes
4. A collection of English Country dances and Scotch Reels, with Spanish fandangos,&c.
The above upon six or seven instruments at one time by Signor Rivolta Songs
5 Song - "Love among the Roses" S. Rivolta
6 Italian Song - "O Peina Bella Pepina" S.R.
7 Solo on the har-Lute a favourite waltz
8 Song - "Death of Nelson" Braham Part Second
1. Trio - Pandean pipes, Spanish Guitar, and piano forte by S. and M Rivolta
2. Duet - "A Sigh of Sadness" by S & M. R
3. Italian Song - "Sollier le miei Catane" by S. R.
4. Song - "She answers No, No, No" by M. R.
5. Song - "When the Rosebud" by S. Rivolta
6. Intalian Duet - "Ma la Moglie fa buin pro" sung at the concerts, London, by S.& M. Rivolta
Part Three
1. Overture with variations
2. A grand selection of Haydn and Mozart waltzes
3. Several national airs, performed at Vauxall Gardens
4. To conclude with Rule Britannia, and God Save the King, first part, vocal, second instrumental
Upon nine instruments at one time with the piano forte
The instruments may be viewed by any lady or gentlemen by applying to S. Rivolta, at the place of performance.
Another concert took place in Douglas and the advertisement appeared in the Manx Advertiser dated 27th July.1820
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