Maretzek Italian Opera: William Tell

“One of the best performances of ‘William Tell’ that has taken place since the revival of the opera by the present company was that given at the Academy of Music last night. The opera this week has to struggle against the competition of other social attractions, and the audience at this representation was not a crowded one. It was, however, eminently enthusiastic, and rewarded the performers with hearty applause—the tenor, Lefranc, coming in for the lion’s share of the approbation. This accomplished artist never sang with greater expression and effect that most delicious of plaintive melodies, the ‘Muto asile,’ and never with more vim and brilliancy the martial allegro that follows it. Reyna was admirable as Tell, and the chorus and orchestra were in excellent condition.”

“’William Tell’ was better sung last night at the Academy than on any occasion that we have heard it here. To our surprise, Signor Lefranc was in fine voice, and his Arnoldo was received with immense satisfaction. Both as regards evenness of quality and facile success in the more striking achievements that always move his audience to enthusiasm, Signor Lefranc was at his highest pitch of excellence; and although a sympathetic ear, accustomed to his singing, could undoubtedly detect from here and there traces of fatigue, they could not be said to mar the general effect of his performance. Mme. Briol was likewise at her best in Matilde, and well deserved the hearty applause she received. Signor Reyna was very good as William Tell, and so was Mlle. Lami as Jenny. The choruses were prompt and strong, and the orchestra, if at times a little too noisy, was otherwise nearly all that could be wished. Nothing indeed was wanted but the expected presence of Prince Arthur to complete the satisfaction of a well-filled house, and to round off in conformity with the general hope one of the most brilliant evenings of the opera season.”

“Rossini’s noble opera William Tell was given last evening at the Academy with all the effect that attended its production last season. Signor Lefranc distinguished himself as greatly as on former occasions, singing with that zeal and unfailing certainty of intonation and breadth of style and capacity of voice that are his distinguishing characteristics as an artist. Signor Reyna as Tell was also praiseworthy. The attendance was very good.”