Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-George(s)-3
Joseph Bologne, better known as Chevalier was one of the first classical composers of African heritage! He was born in Guadeloupe in 1745 to an enslaved Mother and eventually moved to France where he spent the rest of his life as a musician and a soldier. He studied music in France and became a respected composer. He was also the conductor of an orchestra in Paris: Les Concert Des Amateur. He was considered a musical equal and rival to W.A. Mozart! He lived until 1799. A movie made in 2022 tells the story of his life and music. Listen to some of the following examples: Aria from his opera L'Mont Anonyme String Quartet in F minor Overture (the first selection) from his opera Sonata for two violins - worth watching! A short video about his life - I highly recommend watching this video!