deaths
June 9, 1799
Chevalier de Saint-Georges, Caribbean-French violinist, composer, and conductor (born 1745)
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.
June 9
June 9 is the 160th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar; 205 days remain until the end of the year.