The Porpora tradition

Isaac Nathan studied with Italian singing master, Domenico Corri, who was in turn, a student of Nicola Porpora. A perspective on the Porpora Tradition may be arguably accessed translations of Treatises written by Italian's like Manuel Garcia or Marchesi who were both part of that tradition. However, both Isaac Nathan and his teacher Domenico Corri wrote down the methods of teaching singing in English, and Corri studied directly with Porpora while Garcia was of the same second hand transmission as Nathan. Nathan's perspective is perhaps valuable because he was a scholar of ancient languages, and cross-referenced his studies with a valuable account of the Porpora Tradition passed to him via Domenico Corri. In Australia, Nathan taught many singers and contributed to building a community of amature Australian singers who were able to perform in an Opera by 1847. In addition, Nathan was a teacher of some extraordinary performers who enjoyed international careers and this arguably indicates commonality with the success of Nicola Porpora. Arguably, Nathan contributed to the musical culture in Australia which has produced many outstanding singers. Within his Pedagogical Lineage we could include singers like Dame Marie Carandini, Sarah Flower, Mr and Mrs Palmer, and Dame Nellie Melba.

Nathan's treatises are written in English and are attached below for your interest.

An Essay on the History and Theory of Music and on The Qualities, Capabilities and Management of The Human Voice, 1823.