births
December 25, 1745
Chevalier de Saint-Georges, Caribbean-French violinist, composer, and conductor (died 1799)
Chevalier de Saint-Georges
Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-George(s) was a French violinist, conductor, composer and soldier. Moreover, he demonstrated excellence as a fencer, an athlete and an accomplished dancer. His historical significance lies partly in his distinctive background as a biracial free man of color. Bologne was the first classical composer of African descent to attain widespread acclaim in European music. He composed an array of violin concertos, string quartets, sinfonia concertantes, violin duets, sonatas, two symphonies and an assortment of stage works, notably opéra comique.
December 25
December 25 is the 359th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar; six days remain until the end of the year.