The Chevalier: New Connections Concert
Manchester Camerata and Leeds Conservatoire Orchestra
Superstar fencer. Virtuoso violinist. Revolutionary?
Just who was Joseph Bologne, the Chevalier de Saint-Georges? Piano teacher to the Queen of France, a rockstar of his time and described as “the most accomplished man in Europe” in 1779 by the President of the USA. Why has the story of the ‘black Mozart’ been hidden from our history?
The Chevalier will tell his story – one of brilliance, revolution and then erasure. Composed and directed by jazz pianist Pete Letanka with Bologne’s music at its heart, this contemporary song cycle introduces you to Bologne’s story, from his Caribbean childhood to revolutionary 18th century France. Featuring new music created by young people in Leeds with Pete Letanka, you’ll be transported through the sounds of classical, jazz and calypso to the contemporary sound of Leeds.
As Leeds celebrates its 400th year, alongside Leeds Conservatoire and Orchestras Live’s 60th birthdays, join us for a compelling musical evening that asks:
Whose stories get stolen from our history and why?
Creative Team
Director and Composer Pete Letanka
Conductor Tom Fetherstonhaugh
Manchester Camerata
Leeds Conservatoire Orchestra
Choir from Kerr Mackie Primary and Roundhay School
Roundhay School Ensemble
Programme
The Chevalier Pete Letanka
Symphony No. 1 Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges
Hidden Histories Leeds Conservatoire Students arr. Pete Letanka
New Music from Kerr Mackie Primary and Roundhay School arr. Pete Letanka
Tickets: £16, £8 under 18s
6.30pm (Doors open at 6pm)
Approx end time 8.30pm
