Théotime Langlois de Swarte, the violinist and conductor on this album, is a laureate of the Banque Populaire Foundation and plays a Jacob Stainer violin from 1665.
Historical Context
Saint-George became the favored musician of Queen Marie-Antoinette, who even nominated him to direct the Royal Opera, a decision that triggered a violent racial controversy.
Recording & Production
This album is a 'kaleidoscope of forms' featuring rarely recorded pieces by Saint-George, aiming to present a lesser-known facet of the composer.
Composer Biography
Saint-George was the first Black Freemason and the first Black colonel in the French army, where he formed a regiment of Black and mixed-race soldiers known as the 'Légion de Saint-George'.
Composer Biography
Saint-George was a prodigious violinist, an admired conductor, and the most famous fencer in Paris, elevating his ensemble to Europe's finest orchestra.
Cultural Impact
Saint-George's works were removed from the repertoire and largely forgotten after the reinstatement of slavery in 1802, a 'second death' for his oeuvre.
Composer Biography
Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-George, was born in Guadeloupe in 1739 and received an education traditionally reserved for children of the high aristocracy.
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