[EXCERPT] Joseph Bologne, “Chevalier de Saint-Georges” (ca. 1739-1799) was a Parisian celebrity, acclaimed swordsman, composer, violin virtuoso, and conductor of one of the best orchestras in Europe. He also fought in at least one, perhaps two revolutions. Bologne was born to a teenaged enslaved woman, Anne “dit Nanon” on the Caribbean island of Guadeloupe. There is no record of his baptism, and primary sources have conflicting information regarding his date of birth. Bologne’s father, a wealthy plantation owner, brought the boy and his mother to Paris and introduced the young “Chevalier de Saint-Georges” into French society while ensuring he [...]

Let's Take a Quick Trip to the Salon.... And No, We're Not Talking About Getting Your Hair Done Join us at the salon before Bluebeard’s Castle | Four Songs! No, we’re not talking about getting your hair done, we’re talking about salon concerts!  Salons became popular in 17th and 18th century France, and it was a place where people could gather to discuss literature, poetry, philosophy, theology, and ideas, often accompanied by food and drink. The French word “salon” literally means “large room,” suggesting a spacious room where people might withdraw after a meal for entertainment or conversation. [...]