 
|
Married author/illustrator team Lesa Cline-Ransome and James E. Ransome have created this beautiful picture book biography, truly a tribute to the lesser known classical composer, Joseph Boulogne.
An extraordinary musician and composer, Boulogne was born the son of a slave in the West Indies on Christmas morning, 1739. The only son of the master, Joseph enjoyed all the benefits of a privileged child with the freedom to spend time with his father, play among the trees and travel to the busy port town of Basse-Terre. Privately tutored, Joseph learned to play the violin at a young age.
When he was nine years old, Joseph, his mother and his father moved to Paris. Here his mother was finally free and lived in an apartment on the outskirts of the city. Joseph lived with his father in Paris to continue his education. He was the top student in every class – very athletic, he was skilled at riding, dancing, and especially fencing. Although he experienced some taunting because of his skin color, Joseph was included among the sons of royalty.
When he turned twenty-one, Joseph was given a Stradivari violin and devoted his life to music. He played in the orchestra and earned the position of first violin and timekeeper. After developing a new technique for playing the violin “deux symphonies concertantes,” he composed six operas, as well as a number of quartets, concertos and ariettas.
After having attended one of Boulogne’s concerts, a young Mozart was inspired by the unusual melody and proceeded to write the Sinfonia Concertante in E-flat Major for violin and viola. Although the two men played in similar venues, they never met personally. The book concludes with an author’s note with additional historical information.
Cline-Ransome’s text begs to be read aloud as she tells Joseph’s story as if she is right there watching him play the violin and direct the orchestra. Stressing the importance of Joseph’s relationships with his mother and father, this picture book biography conveys the emotions and excitement of the people within both the narrative and the painted illustrations.
Utilizing bright colors, shadows and light, one can feel the movement in the composer’s arms, see the flicker in the candle flames and almost “hear” the music of his violin. Readers of all ages will be inspired by Joseph’s confidence and pursuit of excellence. Highly recommended.
|
|
Before There Was Mozart: The Story of Joseph Boulogne, Chevalier de Saint-George