Madame Viardot Garcia, at Glasgow’s City Hall, the 15th of February 1859

The Glasgow Herald reviewed the concert on page 2 of the Wednesday the 16th of February edition:

 

“GRAND EVENING CONCERT. – Last night the City Hall was filled to overflowing by a fashionable and enthusiastic company of ladies and gentlemen, assembled to hear what had been announced as ‘the grand concert of the season.’ And such it proved to be, for every one of the artistes gave the utmost satisfaction. Madame Viardot Garcia, though she did not come up to the expectations of a considerable number of those present, gave some token of the talent of which she is possessed, especially when singing the dramatic ballad ‘Rizzio,’ which was applauded to the very echo. Miss Eyles sang with much taste; her ‘Comin’ through the rye’ was admirably given. Signor Luchesi (tenor) made a very favourable appearance, and of Signor Dragone (baritone) we may speak with almost unqualified praise. Signor Regondi played very cleverly on the concertina, and Mr. J. L. Hatton, accompanist, sang several humorous songs very facetiously. Miss. Arabella Goddard, presided at the grand pianoforte, and charmed her auditors with her most exquisite playing. We may mention that the piano which she used is one of the finest instruments ever brought to Glasgow. Its power and liquid quality of tone are marvellous; such an instrument, in fact, can only be turned out occasionally. It is the manufacture of Messrs. Broadwood, of London.”