Crossley, Ada Jemima (1871–1929)
Crossley, Ada Jemima (1871–1929)
Australian singer. Name variations: Ada Crossley, Ada Muecke, Ada Frederick. Born Mar 3, 1871, in Tarraville, Victoria, Australia; died Oct 17, 1929, in Woodlands Park, Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire, England; studied with Sir Charles Santley and Blanche Marchesi; m. Dr. Francis Frederick (throat specialist), 1905.
Known for interpretive skills as contralto singer, began career with 3rd Philharmonic Subscription Concert at Melbourne Town Hall; debuted in Sydney (1892); left for Europe to study after giving farewell concerts in Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide (1894); made debut at Queens Hall, London (1895); was in great demand for oratorios and festivals throughout Britain after standing in at short notice for Clara Butt; gave 5 command performances for Queen Victoria in 2 years; toured US (1902–03), recording for new Victor's Red Seal series and later became an established international recording artist; had extensive repertoire; returned to Australia for 2 tours with supporting artists (1903–04, 1907–08), including young pianist Percy Grainger; cut back on commitments in later years but still performed at many charity concerts during WWI.