Lalande, Henriette Clementine Meric

1798-1867

Born in Dunkirk, France. Her father was the chief of a provincial operatic company and taught her singing. She made a successful debut in 1814 at Naples, followed by a tour of France and an engagement ac the Gymnase Dramatique in Paris. Realizing her imperfections she placed herself under Garcia's instruction. About 1823 she married M. Meric, a horn player at the Opera Comique. She received further instruction from Bonfichi and Banderali at Milan, and sang in many Italian cities. Her appearance in Londin in 1830 was a disappointment, as the English did not care for the trembling of her voice, a habit she had acquired. However, she sang again in London the next year. She retired in 1833.