Complete Encyclopaedia of Music/B/Balfe

by John Weeks Moore

Balfe. A good vocalist and fine composer. He sang in New York in 1834. He has acquired such musical reputation as few English singers or composers have ever done. Balfe was born in Ireland, and was first distinguished as a singer. His voice was a baritone of moderate power ; but his style was most beautifully finished and full of feeling. He has since merged the singer in the composer. His sparkling and effective operas, the "Enchantress," the "Bohemian Girl," &c., enjoy great popularity. Balfe has presided over the orchestra for some time in one of the great rival opera establishments in London.