ABSTRACT
The London concert world in the spring of 1790 was in a vibrant but uncertain state. The cataclysm that had struck on the night of 17 June 1789 when the King's Theatre burned down had yet to be fully resolved. As a temporary expedient, Sir John Gallini decided to stage a season of Italian opera at the Little Theatre in the Haymarket. Wilhelm Cramer was now undisputed as London's top leader, directing the three most prestigious ensembles, the King's Theatre orchestra, the Professional Concert and the Concert of Ancient Music. Undoubtedly the saddest musical encounter of Susan's 1790 spring visit to London was with Felice Giardini. Susan considered herself fortunate to be present on a night when her favourite sang an additional piece. In the published programme his songs were advertised as being by Antonio Sacchini, Tommaso Giordani and Giovanni Paisiello.
