extended in its range of notes nearly two octaves; which has enabled two performers, upon the same instrument, to represent the full pieces in Mozart and Rossini's operas, with a completeness of effect hitherto unknown. Great skill is required to display, in these duets, the powers of the instrument, as well as the composition, and no arrangements stand higher in public estimation than those of Watts and Diabelli. 'If the piano cannot show itself to advantage in 'a large room, amidst a crowd of instruments, it 'plays its part well in private, where it forms a lit'tle concert. It is the treasure of the harmonist ' and the singer. How many evenings does it re'move from ennui and dullness, and enliven with 'all the charms of melody! '* If we would attempt the music of the drama, it is the point of unity. With a few practised voices, and congenial minds, we engage in the concerted pieces of Figaro and Don Giovanni, or in the captivating duets of Il Barbiere, Tancredi, La Gazza Ladra, and Semiramide. CHAPTER XIV. INSECTS. THE Sounds which insects produce are numerous and curious. It is, probably, not generally known, • M. Castile Blaze. |