A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Merighi, Antonia

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1684365A Dictionary of Music and Musicians — Merighi, Antonia


MERIGHI, Antonia, a fine operatic contralto profondo, who was first engaged for the London stage by Handel, as announced in the 'Daily Courant' of July 2, 1729. The first part she undertook was that of Matilda in 'Lotario' (Handel), Dec. 2, 1729, in which she created a favourable impression; but her songs, when printed in the published opera, were transposed into much higher keys. This opera was followed by a revival of 'Tolomeo,' in which she sang soprano music transposed for her, and next by 'Partenope,' in which Merighi appeared as Rosmira with equal success in 1730 and 31. In the latter year she sang the part of Armida in the revival of 'Rinaldo.'

After the close of that season however her name was not found again in the bills, until 1736. The 'Daily Post' of November 18 in that year informs us that 'Signora Merighi, Signora Chimenti, and the Francesina, had the honour to sing before her Majesty, the duke, and princesses, at Kensington, on Monday night last, and met with a most gracious reception.'

In January, 1738, Merighi appeared in the new opera, 'Faramondo,' just finished by Handel after his return from Aix-la-Chapelle, and again in 'La Conquista del Velio d'Oro' (Pescetti). In April of the same season she took the part of Amastre in 'Serse,'—the last she sang in England.
[ J. M. ]