Today, as memory of past opera greats fades a bit, especially that of singers and impresarios who largely predated the age of recording, it is impressive that one of the first truly worldwide celebrities was a daughter of the Two Sicilies who studied and came of age in New York.

Adelina Patti and her parents, siblings, and extended family toured the Americas, Europe and Australia and were interconnected through collaboration and marriage to several prominent musicians and impresarios. In the 19th century, a unique circle of Italian opera families, and the Patti family in particular, had a far-reaching impact on the performance and availability of opera in the United States.