Banti, Brigitta (c. 1756–1806)

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Banti, Brigitta (c. 1756–1806)

Italian operatic singer. Name variations: Brigitta Banti-Giorgi; Brigitta Giorgi. Born Brigitta Giorgi in c. 1756 in Monticelli D'Ongina, Italy; died Feb 18, 1806; studied with Abel, Piozzi, and Antonio Sacchini; m. Zaccaria Banti (dancer).

Discovered as street singer and taken to Paris Opéra; made debut (1776); moved to London (1778) and became principal soloist for Pantheon concerts but, unable to read music, was eventually dismissed; performed widely and became more popular in Europe, appearing as principal in King's Theatre until retirement (1802); sang in premiere of Eraldo ed Emma and created title role for Mount Edgcumbe's Zenobia.