Essential Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges
Composer, conductor, fencing champion: Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges (1745-1799) was one of the most fascinating figures of 18th century music. As a conductor of both the Concert des amateurs and the Société de la Loge olympique, he was vital to the artistic excellence of these orchestras, his compositions were revered by contemporaries such as Beethoven and made a significant contribution to the development of the two main genres of French instrumental music: the Symphonie concertante and the solo concerto. Today, Saint-Georges is considered the first French violin virtuoso. Dive into our Essentials playlist and discover his most important compositions, including chamber music, orchestral and of course concertante works.