Jillian Mazzenga

The launch of CCO’s 2020-2021 Season: Joseph Bologne’s Symphony No. 2 in D major

Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges (1745-1799) was a champion fencer, virtuoso violinist, composer, conductor, and colonel in the French Revolutionary Army, described by U.S. President John Adams as “the most accomplished man in Europe.” Born on Guadeloupe to a wealthy plantation owner and his wife’s African slave, Bologne faced countless hardships throughout his musical career, military career, and personal life in Europe. A profound influence on classical music, Bologne’s indelible mark on the field withstands centuries of racist attempts to erase him from history.

Featuring Animation by Oscar Li