Lafayette: Music for the Marquis
Step back in time with performers Anne Enslow and Ridley Enslow, in a program that brings both music and history together in a heartfelt tribute to French-American hero, the Marquis de Lafayette.
This show follows Lafayette’s life, beginning with his childhood in the court of France and continuing through his service in the American Revolution. He performed with distinction both on and off the battlefield.
The post-war years, however, were not kind to Lafayette. Attempting to bring American ideals to the nascent French Revolution, he instead unleashed furious mobs. Imprisoned harshly, he eventually gained freedom through the efforts of his wife, Adrienne, and a promise to stay out of politics.
In 1824 and 1825, as the United States prepared for the 50th anniversary of the American Revolution, Lafayette returned to this country for a triumphal tour.
The Enslows alternate narrative with music performed on violin and hammered dulcimer, singing in harmony as well. Musical selections include songs from the American Revolution, one from the French Revolution (“Ça ira”), and two pieces written specifically for Lafayette’s U.S. tour in 1824–25—”General Lafayette’s Grand March” and “Lafayette, Son of Valor! Heir of Glory.”
No registration is required; however, seating is first-come, first-seated.