Italian Schoool, ca. 1780, watercolor caricature on paper, titled "L'Accademia" and depicting musicians, a female singer, and audience members, beneath them an Italian satirical verse criticizing the abilities of a well-known singer called "Martina." Image: 8.5" H x 13" W Frame: 14" H x 17" W Note: The "Martina" referenced in the satirical poem may be Giuseppe Aprile (Neapolitan, 1732 - 1813), Sicilian castrato, in the later 18th century a soloist at the Royal Chapel in Naples and stage performer. Aprile was born in Martina Franca, and was sometimes called "La Martina" or "Scirolino" after he studied with Gregorio Sciroli, composer and singing instructor. He began his singing career in 1752 at the Teatro San Carlo in Naples, later performing in prominent theatres throughout Italy, Germany, and even Madrid. His voice could reach E5. He withdrew from the stage in 1785 and became a singing instructor in Naples.

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