Duschek, Josepha

1756-

A celebrated singer, the wife of Franz Duschek. Her maiden name was Hambacher. She received most of her vocal instruction from her husband, and became a singer of some repute, although musicians differed as to her voice. She sang with success in all of the continental cities, and her voice was rich and her singing expressive. Mozart, the friend of her husband, wrote for her at Prague the concert-aria, Bella mia fiamma. It is generally believed that Beethoven also wrote his Ah! Perfido for her, as she was the first to sing it. Mme. Duschek died at an advanced age.