Elisabetta Gambarini

Elisabetta Gambarini

English singer (soprano)
Date of Birth: 07.09.1731
Country: Great Britain

Content:
  1. Early Life and Education
  2. Soprano and Oratorio Performances
  3. Publication and Composition
  4. Benefit Concert and Performances
  5. Versatile Artist

Early Life and Education

Lucia Gaetana Chazal was born into an Italian family in Germany, the daughter of Carlo Gaetani, an advisor to the Landgrave of Hesse-Kassel. It is suspected that she received musical training from renowned violinist and composer Francesco Geminiani.

Soprano and Oratorio Performances

As a soprano, Chazal sang the alto part in Handel's "Occasional Oratorio" (HWV 62) in 1746. She also performed as the Israelite Woman in the premiere of his oratorio "Judas Maccabeus" in 1747 and may have sung the role of Asenath in "Joseph and his Brethren." Her name appears in playbills for Handel's "Samson" and "Messiah," but the dates of these performances are uncertain.

Publication and Composition

In 1748-1750, Chazal published three volumes of compositions, including works for harpsichord, songs in Italian and English. George Handel himself was among the 200 subscribers to her harpsichord music.

Benefit Concert and Performances

On April 15, 1761, Chazal held a benefit concert in the Great Room on Dean Street, featuring her own ode and cantatas by Geminiani. In May 1764, she performed as Mrs. Chazal in a concert showcasing her skills as an organist and composer.

Versatile Artist

According to Gerber's "Lexikon," Chazal was also an accomplished painter, demonstrating her diverse artistic talents.

© BIOGRAPHS