Francesco Schira

Francesco Schira (1809–1883), composer, conductor, and professor of singing, was born at Malta. He received his early education at Milan. At 17, having completed his studies, Francisco was commissioned to write an opera for the Scala, which was produced Nov. 17, 1832. That 'Elena e Malvina' won favourable recognition may be inferred from the fact that a Lisbon impresario being at Milan, with the object of forming a company for the Santo Carlos, contracted an engagement with Schira for the forthcoming season as 'Maestro Direttore, Compositore e Conduttore della Musica.' He remained eight years in the Portuguese capital, where he was also appointed Professor of Harmony and Counterpoint at the Conservatory, composing 'I Cavalieri di Valenza' and 'Il Fanatico per la Musica,' for the Santo Carlos, besides ballets, cantatas, etc. In January 1842 Schira quitted Lisbon for Paris, with the idea of obtaining some book in the French language which he might set to music. In Paris he made the acquaintance of Mr. Maddox, then in quest of artists for the Princess's Theatre. This led to an offer from the London manager, and Schira was appointed director of music and orchestral chief at that establishment. On Monday, Dec. 26, 1842, the Princess's opened as a lyric theatre, and Schira's appearance at the conductor's desk was his first introduction to the English public.