Svoboda | Graniru | BBC Russia | Golosameriki | Facebook

Joseph Boulogne: The musical genius you’ve never heard of

Joseph Boulogne, also known as the Chevalier de Saint-Georges, is perhaps the most famous musician and composer you’ve never heard of. A soldier, athlete, musical genius and revolutionary – he was the crème de la crème of 18th Century French society.

However, when Napoleon seized power shortly after Boulogne's death, Boulogne's music was banned in an attempt to erase him from French history. 

Script by Emma Nagouse, based on original research by Dr Olivette Otele.

Produced in partnership with the Open University.

Animation by Peter Caires

Narration by Cherry Stewart-Czerkas

Find out more by downloading the You’re Dead To Me podcast.