Chevalier de Saint-Georges

Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-George(s) was a French violinist, conductor, composer and soldier. Moreover he demonstrated excellence as a fencer, an athlete and an accomplished dancer. His historical significance lies partly in his distinctive background as a biracial free man of color. Bologne was the first classical composer of African descent to attain widespread acclaim in European music. He composed an array of violin concertos, string quartets, sinfonia concertantes, violin duets, sonatas, two symphonies and an assortment of stage works, notably opéra comique.

25 December 1745

Born on the same birth day (25 December): Alastair Cook • Benjamin Pierce (governor) • Camille Herron • Ernest L. Massad • Johannes Buxtorf • Ken Stabler • Mabel King • Ned Garver • Shawn Andrews • William Bell (tubist) • Willy Taveras

Born in the same month (December 1745): Maddalena Laura Sirmen