Joseph Bologne (1745 - 1799), otherwise known as Chevalier de Sainte Georges, was born in Guadeloupe the son of a French planter and an African slave. He had an education in France and was especially successful in the art of fencing and was equally celebrated as something of a virtuoso violinist. He notably conducted the first performances of Haydn’s Paris Symphonies. He was also much involved in opera with his comic opera L’Amant Anonyme being the most successful. He often visited England and became friendly with Prince George (late Prince Regent) and fought a fencing match at Brighton Pavilion. He was caught up in the military conflicts following the French Revolution but music remained a constant. The opera L’Amant Anonyme tells the story of a wealthy widow and an unknown admirer (actually a close friend who thinks he stands little chance on account of his lowly status) and their eventual happy union. This ‘overture’ is in effect a short three movement ‘symphony’: Presto Andante Presto