Chevalier de Saint Georges | The Islands of Guadeloupe

Chevalier de Saint George

Guadeloupe’s First Champion, Virtuoso and Hero: Joseph Bologne aka Chevalier Saint-Georges

Joseph Bologne, better known as Chevalier de Saint-Georges, was a prominent historical figure from Guadeloupe.
He was not only a virtuoso violinist, conductor, and composer but also a significant influence on great composers of his time, including Franz Joseph Haydn and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

During the French Revolution, Saint-Georges emerged as a Civil Rights hero and unmatched fencer. Born in Baillif, Basse-Terre in 1745, he led the famous "Légion Saint-Georges," the first all-black military regiment in Europe, advocating for equal rights for all. His remarkable life serves as a model of excellence and resilience, navigating a tumultuous period in French history torn between the ideals of revolution and the rules of the slave trade. U.S. President Adams hailed him as "The most accomplished man in Europe."

Despite his extraordinary achievements, Joseph Bologne's life and his contributions to classical music remain largely overlooked by the public.

His biopic, "Chevalier," received global acclaim upon its release in April 2023, shedding light on his legacy. Additionally, the 4th edition of the Saint-Georges International Music Festival is set to take place in Guadeloupe in Fall 2024, further honoring his enduring impact.

THE SAINT-GEORGES INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL – FALL 2024, GUADELOUPE ISLANDS

Unanimously described by the press as “The Best and Most Prestigious Classical Music Festival in the Caribbean” The Saint-Georges International Music Festival is a tribute to Chevalier de Saint-Georges, The fourth edition festival will feature spectacular concerts with world class artists and a plethora of educational and cultural events, all taking place across the beautiful Guadeloupe archipelago.

From state of the Art MACTe Museum, beautiful colonial architecture to a vibrant jazz and Ka scene and more, Guadeloupe is a refined mix between Modernity and Traditions that will rejoice all culturaholics. The Saint-Georges International Music Festival is a sophisticated “classical” addition to Guadeloupe’s already diverse music scene and has become Guadeloupe’s cultural masterpiece over the years, a landmark for the destination. Over 60 musicians from over 20 countries from around the world join for a week-long classical music extravaganza.

“The Art Culture is Beyond Classy” – Matador Network