Saint-Georges: 6 String Quartets, Op. 1

It would be impossible to make even a brief survey of the development of chamber music in France during the last thirty years of the 18th century without including the name of Joseph Boulogne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges (1). Born about 1739 in Guadaloupe, the "brillant mulatre" earned many titles of recognition during his lifetime, and his many-sided talents that were as varied as they were exceptional enabled him to entertain and charm the society of his times. Director of the Concert des Amateurs and subsequently the Loge Olympique, violinist, conductor, composer, the lively man-at-arms and horseman of the King's guard was also an intrepid duellist, a persistent gambler, a gallant man of the world, a skilful political agent and after 1789, a convinced and active revolutionary, raising a legion in Northern France in order to help the young republic. Wrongly accused of having squandered the funds at the disposal of his troops, Saint-Georges was relieved of his post and subsequently imprisoned. He had scarcely regained his freedom before embarking for Saint Domingo in order to lend a hand to the uprising. On his return to Paris (1797), Saint-Georges was in charge of the Cercle d'Harmonie concerts. He died on June 9th 1799, almost penniless, having given so much away to those in desperate need.