Mrs. Marriner-Campbell was born and educated in Waterville, Maine. She
was one of the early musical people who came here and has lived in
this state, especially San Francisco since the early sixties. Of her
early musical life I know nothing, it was only through our musical
life in California that we became known to each other and always have
been loyal friends. The first time I ever saw and heard her was at Dr.
Lacy's church when the Handel and Haydn society gave the Creation. She
sang the solo parts and I never have forgotten her or her singing. She
was gowned in a stylish robe of some soft clinging wine-colored
material and her blonde hair was done up in a soft coil on the crown
of her head. At her throat was a soft frill of lace, becomingly
arranged and finishing the picture, leaving a lasting impression,
which was still more strengthened by her beautiful singing, for which
she received the most hearty reception. Her voice was exceedingly
high and her trills were like a bird's in their perfect oscillations
and accurate touch, showing her perfect control of the vocal organs.
At that time she was Mrs. Marriner. Several years after her husband's
death she became Mrs. W.C. Campbell. She and her husband have both
been extremely popular in all undertakings of a musical nature. She
was the highest salaried singer of her time and foremost in all
musical advancement twenty-five years ago. Her musical career, which
has been exceptionally well-balanced and harmonious, is like a statue
of fine proportions that beckons the young to emulation. Mrs. Campbell
confines herself entirely to teaching the young people of San
Francisco and is acknowledged as a teacher par excellence. She has
studied abroad--in England, France and Italy, and during the years of
the seventies was coached by the famous prima donna, Madam Anna
Bishop, receiving from her all the traditions of the English school
and particularly the oratorio traditions. She is still in California
and happy both in her home and occupation of developing the young
voices of her city. While abroad Mrs. Campbell studied with Errani,
Albites and Muzio, a nephew of Verdi.