A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Adamberger, Valentin

by Carl Ferdinand Pohl

ADAMBERGER, Valentin. Singer, born at Munich July 6, 1743. Remarkable for his splendid tenor voice and admirable method. He was taught singing by Valesi, and at his instance went to Italy, where he met with great success under the Italianised name of Adamonti. He was recalled to Vienna by the Emperor Joseph, and made his first appearance in German opera at the Hof-und-National-Theater there on Aug. 21, 1780. In the interim however he had visited London, where he sang in Sacchini's 'Creso' at the King's Theatre in 1777. In 1789 he entered the Imperial Chapel. Later in life he became renowned as a teacher of singing. It was for him that Mozart composed the part of Belmonte in the 'Seraglio,' as well as the fine airs 'Per pietà,' 'Aura che intorno,' and 'A te, fra tante affanni' (Davidde Penitente). He also appeared in the 'Schauspiel-Director' of the same master. In 1782 he married Anna Maria [App. p.518 "Maria Anna"], daughter of Jacquet the actor, herself a noted actress. She died 1804. His daughter Antoine [App. p.518 "Antonie"], also a player, a woman of much talent and amiability, was betrothed to Körner the poet, but their union was prevented by his death in action, Aug. 26, 1813, after which, 1817, she married Jos. Arneth, trustee to the imperial cabinet of antiquities. Fétis and others give Adamberger's name Joseph, and his death as on June 7, 1803—both incorrect. He died in Vienna, Aug. 24, 1804, aged sixty-one. Mozart's letters contain frequent references to him, and always of an affectionate and intimate character. Through all the difficulties and vicissitudes of theatrical life, nothing occurred to interrupt their intercourse, though evidence is not wanting that Adamberger's temper was none of the best. Mozart took his advice on musical matters, and on one occasion names him as a man 'of whom Germany may well be proud.'

[ C. F. P. ]