S1 Ep15: Joseph Bologne

Great European Lives with Charlie Connelly

In this episode, host Charlie Connelly explores the life of French classical composer Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges. He lived an extraordinary life in extraordinary circumstances, performing for and with European royalty and president John Adams called him the most accomplished man in Europe. So, why is it so few have heard of him? The answer lies in the payoff line of a 1786 newspaper feature on the musician that called him a 'mulatto, the son of an African mother'. He was constantly referred to as the Black Mozart and experienced tropes that are still familiar today constantly whispered behind his back, and even sometimes to his face. Enjoyed this episode? Let us know by tweeting @TheNewEuropean.