A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Tree, Anna

TREE, Anna Maria, the elder sister of Mrs. Charles Kean (Ellen Tree), born 1802 in London, was taught singing by Lanza and Tom Cooke. She was first engaged at Bath, where she appeared as Polly in 'The Beggar's Opera,' Nov. 13, 1818. She made her début at Covent Garden as Rosina in 'The Barber of Seville,' Sept. 10, 1819; became a popular actress and ballad singer, and remained at that theatre, with the exception of her provincial engagements, until her retirement, June 15, 1825. She made a great success as Luciana, Dec. 11, 1819; Viola, Nov. 8, 1820; Julia, Nov. 29, 1821; Imogen, June 19, 1822; Rosalind, Dec. 10, 1824; in Reynolds and Bishop's musical adaptations of Shakespeare. Her principal new parts were Louison in 'Henri Quatre,' April 22, 1820; Zaide in the younger Colman's 'Law of Java,' May 11, 1822; Lady Matilda in Planches 'Maid Marian,' adapted from Peacock's novel, Dec. 3, 1822; Clari the Maid of Milan, in Payne's operatic play, wherein she originally sang 'Home, sweet Home,' May 8, 1823; Mary Copp in Payne's 'Charles II.' May 27, 1824 (these last two she performed at her farewell benefit); the Baroness Matilda in 'The Frozen Lake,' a mutilated version of Auber's 'Neige,' Nov. 26, 1824, etc. She married Mr. James Bradshaw, afterwards member for Canterbury, Aug. 15, 1825, and died at her residence, Queen's Gate Terrace, Feb. 17, 1862. Chorley described her as a singer with a cordial, expressive mezzo-soprano voice, and much real feeling.

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