The British Musical Biography

[E] Arne, Michael, composer, natural son of
Thomas A. Arne, born London, 1741. He
was educated for the stage by his aunt, Mrs.
Cibber. In 1751 he first appeared as a
vocalist. He married Elizabeth Wright, the
soprano singer, in November, 1766, and in
1779 became director of music at a theatre in
Dublin. He returned to London and was
director of oratorios in 1784. He devoted
himself latterly to the study of alchemy and
lost his fortune in the pursuit. Died at
Lambeth, London, January 14, 1786.

[W] Works. — Musical dramas : The fairy tale,
1763 ; Almena(with Battishill) 1764 ; Positive
man, 1764; Hymen, 1764; Cymon, 1767; The
Father, 1778 ; The Belle's stratagem, 1780 ;
Choice of Harlequin, 1781 ; Tristram Shandy,
1783. Theflow'ret,anew collection of English
songs. Glees, many single songs, etc.

[+] His wife Elizabeth Weight (born about
1743, died?) soprano singer, sang at the prin-
cipal concerts of her day.

entry id: 13-L-45