Vocal Concerts

They were at that time "... entirely vocal, for neither overture nor concerto was played, and the whole instrumental band was limited to two violins, a tenor [viola], and a violoncello, with a pianoforte for the accompaniment of songs and glees.

[4] In 1801, with Thomas Greatorex and James Bartleman, Charles Knyvett revived the Vocal Concerts.

[6] In 1803 Elizabeth Billington became the principal female singer: "the attraction of her name was such that the subscription... closed some days before the concerts commenced".

"Glees, English ballads, and the whole ancient school of vocal music, had gone gradually out of favour....

The establishment and rapid increase of the Philharmonic, however, may be considered as the more immediate cause of the failure of the Vocal Concerts."

Willis's Rooms, also known as Almack's Assembly Rooms, in King Street, St. James, London.
Elizabeth Billington