George Bridgetower - Violinist
George Bridgetower, full name George Augustus Polgreen Bridgetower, was an immensely gifted 18th century violinist and musician. He was also known for his friendship with the famous classical composer Ludwig van Beethoven. Bridgetower was born on the 11th October 1778 in Poland, his mother Maria Schmid was Polish and his father Friedrich was said to have escaped slavery in Barbados (West Indies). His brother, Friedrich Joseph Bridgetower was also a musician, he played the cello.
He was just ten years of age when he made his debut performance in Paris, France showcasing his skills as a violinist. The journal Le Mercure de France praised his performance remarking that "his talent is a powerful response to those who seek to
undermine the artistic capabilities of individuals from his background and ethnicity." George travelled to the UK with his father to perform concerts in London, Bath, and Brighton, he took audiences by storm and it wasn't long before he caught the attention of the Prince of Wales (who later became King George IV). The Prince attended one of his concerts and was impressed, he said George had given "an exquisite performance."
Unfortunately, George's father squandered his earnings so the Prince of Wales took George under his wing, offering him protection and arranging for his tuition. George became the first violinist in the prince's private orchestra, where he was the highest paid court musician at the time, earning £12. George held this role for 14 years. Throughout this period he also composed and taught music.
His most notable relationship was with Ludwig van Beethoven. During a visit to Vienna in 1803 George performed a well-received concert with Beethoven, which inspired the creation of numerous musical dedications. Let’s pause for a moment. George Bridgertower inspired Beethoven. One of Beethoven’s compositions Violin Sonata No.9 in A minor was initially composed for George. However due them falling out Beethoven later re-dedicated the composition to another violinist. Following the disagreement George returned to the UK where he continued composing, performing, and teaching music. While several of his works have been lost a few compositions from this period, such as "Diatonica Armonica for Pianoforte" (1812) and "Henry: A Ballad for Medium Voice and Piano," have been preserved. In recognition of his contributions, George was elected to the Royal Society of Musicians in October 1807. Additionally, he
prioritised his education, earning a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Cambridge in 1811 becoming one of the first Mixed Race Black people to do so.
George gradually disappeared from the limelight, he spent his final years living in poverty in Peckham, south London where he passed away on the 29th February 1860.
"His talent is a powerful response to those who seek to undermine the artistic capabilities of individuals from his background and ethnicity."
Newspaper report
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