Thalberg
SIGISMOND, a Swiss pianist; born in Geneva in 1812, where he received his early education under the supervision of his mother, the Barof his mother, the Bar oness Wetzlar. At the age of 10 he was removed to Vienna, where he continued his studies under the best masters, in preparation for a diplomatic career.
Thalberg's first appearance as a pianist was at the age of 14, when he played at an evening party at Prince Metternich's. This success was followed up by numerous appearances in Paris, till, overcoming his father's scruples, he was allowed to abandon diplomacy for music. He made tours in 1839 through Belgium, Holland, England, and Russia, and afterward through Spain, Brazil, and North America, finally settling down at Naples in 1858. Thalberg married Madame Boucher, daughter of the celebrated Lablache. His musical compositions comprise more than 90 numbers, principally fantasies and variations. His operas "Cristina" and "Florinda"-the latter played before the queen in London in before the London in 1851-were absolute failures. As a pianist, in graceful and brilliant execution and in manual dexterity, he had scarcely a rival. He died in Naples April 27, THALLENE