When: Monday 11th June 2012
Where: PCS Headquarters (CLAPHAM JUNCTION), 160 Falcon Road, Clapham Junction, London SW11 2LN
Adm: £5 per person / Refreshments will be on sale.
Black Mozart in Cuba is a documentary dedicated to the life and work of Chevalier de Saint George (Guadeloupe; 1745-1799), an accomplished composer, violonist and conductor, an “athletic, musical and military hero who became a superstar” in 18th century France.
Joseph Boulogne, Chevalier de Saint-George (Knight of Saint-George) was born on Christmas Day, 1745, in the French-Caribbean island of Guadeloupe, to a enslaved African and a French colonialist. Saint-George was a breakthrough composer and violin virtuoso who came to be called “Le Mozart Noir.” He became the first Black man to lead France’s most important orchestras. Saint-George was also Europe’s fine fencer, a master horseman, elite musketeer, infamous playboy and a colonel who led an army in the French Revolution. Described by poets of his day as a “French Hercules,” a veritable Mars,” and a “rival of Apollo,” Saint-George stands out as one of the most extraordinary figures of the 18th century.
There will be a discussion after the screening. Bring a pen!