Summary
YANIEWICZ, (Felix) a Polish gentleman, born at Wilna, and in his youth attached to the court of Stanislaus, the late king of Poland. His genius for music showed itself at a very early age, and was so much admired by king Stanislaus that he signified his desire that every means should be employed for the cultivation of a talent so remarkable. With this object in view, a liberal pension was assigned to Yaniewicz, in order that he might travel in Germany, Italy, and France for the improvement of his art. Whilst in Paris, where he was particularly noticed by several members of the royal family, the French revolution broke out, and soon after the sun of Polish liberty set, probably for ever. Amidst the tempest of political commotion which involved the ruin of Stanislaus and the dismantlement of Poland, Yaniewicz's fortunes were involved in the general wreck, and, in 1792, he came to England, where he has since resided: here he married an English lady, by whom he has one son and two daughters. Both his daughters seem to inherit their father 's musical talent. The eldest, Felicia, though still young, is already distinguished as an admirable pianist, possessing great force, neatness, brilliancy of touch, and execution. Her public performances have been equally creditable to herself and to her father, who has been her chief instructor, and the model of her taste. As a singer, her pure and unpretending style, and delicate intonation, have given great pleasure to her hearers in public and in private.
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- Publisher: Cambridge University PressPrint publication year: 2009