The Chevalier and A Melody Remembered
The concert program in my hand.
It was a full moon in Taurus, and it rained most of the day, and it eventually cleared up just in perfect time for my evening out. I took that as a sign since the sun was shining brilliantly and beautifully as if something was waiting just for me.
From the moment I arrived at the historic and notable Madam Walker Legacy Center to experience “The Chevalier, A Musical Play” — featuring the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra — the evening already had an energy to it. I moved through the ticket line like a VIP, found my seat with ease, and settled into the warm hum of a room full of people who had also chosen to be exactly here for this special occasion.
The play follows the phenomenal Joseph Bologne, or Chevalier de Saint-Georges. I thought I was introduced to the story of Bologne only a few years ago: composer, virtuoso violinist, excellent fencer. Though being a man of mixed race in that era brought its own hardships, his genius and brilliance shone through regardless. He was also a friend of Mozart, and music teacher to Marie Antoinette.
Once the ICO began playing Bologne's Symphony No. 2 in D Major, Op. 11, something shifted. It only took a few musical phrases before I realized: I knew this. I had played this. My senior year of high school, this very symphony had lived in my hands. My heart leapt at the recognition; every fiber of me wanted to turn to the audience member next to me quietly announce my rediscovery, though I kept it to myself. It was as if my 17-year-old self leaned in and whispered, "Remember this one?" A small, delightful full-circle moment — the kind you can't plan for, only receive.
About to head into the theater for a delightful evening of music!
Though this is a shorter post, I believe the story and life of Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges must continue to be told, discovered, rediscovered, and remembered. He holds a vital place not just in music history, but in history itself. My congratulations to the entire cast, the conductor, the director and writer of the play, and the guest solo violinist who brought Bologne's exquisite pieces to life so beautifully alongside the very talented Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra. I'm already looking forward to the ICO's next season. If you'd like to take a look for yourself, you can find it here: https://www.icomusic.org/
Details of Joseph Bologne were drawn from the program notes of the performance, and through my own recollection over the years.