Balfe

Michael William, composer, was born in Dublin, May 15, 1808. His musical talent received early culture, and in his ninth year he made his début as a violinist, having begun to_compose at least two years earlier. In 1826 he wrote the music for a ballet, “‘ La Perouse,” performed at Milan; and in 1827 he sang in the Italian Opera at Paris with great applause, his voice being a pure, rich baritone. In 1833 he returned to England, and in 1846 was appointed conductor of the London Italian Opera. He died at Rowley Abbey, his estate in Hertfordshire, Oct. 20, 1870.