She was a student for eight years, and a graduate pupil for two years after which she became an instructor in the institution for the next twelve years of her life. During her years of learning, she learnt to play several musical instruments, and also to sing.
By age 23, Fanny had become popular among top government officials and the congress for her poetry and prowess with words and music. She became close friends with many notable people including President Grover Cleaveland.
On many occasions, Fanny stood before important personalities. In 1846, she addressed the United States Congress and delegations from the Boston and Philadelphia Institutions for the Blind, advocating for the education of the blind in Boston, New York, and Philadelphia. She also performed for President Polk and the First Lady, at the White House. She addressed the New York State Legislature in 1851.
In 1858, Crosby got married to a former pupil of NYIB, and one of New York’s best organists, Alexander Van Alstine. He composed most of the music of her songs, while she wrote their lyrics.
