The Art of Ann

For Ann Swinburne, art was her life and her life was high art. Whether performing on the Broadway stage, or riding the crest of New York society, Ann exhibited the flawless skill and spontenaiety of a seasoned professional. Accompanied by
fame - and fortunes - Ann's life is a testament to a bygone era. Lovingingly compiled by an equally formidable presence - her granddaughter, Liane Schirmer. 2009

Stages

If all the world's a stage, said she,

Then I'll be no mere player,

I'll show what cunning wits I have

Why no one shall be gayer,

I'll seize the moment and the day

To laugh, to flirt, to cling and stray

To row and rage and weep and lie,

I'll suffer, torture, groan, then die

I'll squander not a moment hence,

but play with all art's arrogance.


I'll strut upon this stage of life

As lover, mother, friend and wife

I'll star in war, I'll star in peace

I'll be or not be what I please

I'll spend what pennies I procure

In work or love or gambling tour

And no one shall outshine my star

The art of a woman is greater by far.

c. LS 2009

February 27, 2009

Opera Star Who Sang to Soothe Her Dying Husband

As R. E. Schirmer, head of a New York music publishing house, was dying at Santa Barbara, California, he had his wife, known in the operatic world as Ann Swinburne, sing selections from Beethoven. His last request was that she sing for him.

- 1921
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2 comments:

  1. AnonymousAugust 10, 2010 at 9:22 AM

    I am a Thatcher and related to your grandmother.
    I have photos of Aunt Ida and Aunt Ada. How can I contact you?

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousAugust 10, 2010 at 9:34 AM

    Just to let you know that my grandfather, Joe Thatcher was son to John Burton Thatcher a brother of Ida and Ada which made my grandfather and your grandmother first cousins.
    I have enjoyed reading all of this and you did a beautiful job! I have photos of Aunt Ida and Aunt Ada.
    Della Hodges

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