A Peckham-based violinist who famously fell out with Beethoven has been honoured with a blue plaque for his exceptional contribution to classical music.
George Bridgetower, who travelled the world and spent his later years in Peckham, was a world-renowned violinist who rose to fame as a child. He was born in Poland in 1778 on 11th October, to a German mother and a father from Barbados.
The plaque was installed on Tuesday, 244 years to the day of his birth.
“His dad saw he had a talent and took him on a tour of Europe – he became a celebrity,” said Dr Jak Beula, CEO of Nubian Jak.
Whilst performing abroad, he met Beethoven and the two became friends. In 1803 they performed together in Vienna, and Beethoven dedicated his Violin Sonata No. 9 to him, as well as a tuning fork, now on display in the British Library. But Jak explains the friendship didn’t last long. “George said something disparaging about Beethoven’s niece, and Beethoven was having none of it, so they fell out.”
After the fall out, Beethoven rededicated the composition to a different violinist, and they say George’s music career was never quite the same again.
Jak Buela with Hester Davies Bell from Sony Music UK (photo: Lewis Patrick)
Tara Louise Jettoo, a musician who grew up in Peckham, felt drawn to his story. She was who inspired Jak to put forward George for a blue plaque.
Tara first came across George whilst working for the Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution, where he lived as well for a time.
“George’s father used to exploit him; he would make him play and take the money for himself. Then he met the King (George IV) and clearly made an impression on him, because he put him into his royal processions and agreed to pay for his musical education. But it’s quite unknown as to why he moved to Peckham.”
The plaque was unveiled at the site where George lived, now Jack Jones House, on Reedham Street in Peckham.
“I just think it’s so important for people to see their own roots in history and really understand that there’s so much more to black British history than just slavery and Windrush,” Tara added.
Kwaku, a music historian who specialises in black British music, said: “George rose to be the most famous British composer of the early nineteenth century. He was a phenomenal musical talent – history says he didn’t need rehearsal which is why Beethoven was so impressed by him. It’s great that Southwark Council, Nubian Jak and Sony Music have put up this plaque. And to know that he lived in Southwark – that’s fantastic.
“Black classical musicians have someone to look up to now,” Kwaku said.
The Mayor Southwark, Sunil Chopra, who attended the unveiling, added: “It’s a great initiative to encourage other people to do good, so they might think one day, they could be remembered as well.
The community came to witness the unveiling (photo: Lewis Patrick)
Cllr Catherine Rose, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Parks, Streets a Clean Air, said: “We are delighted to support this wonderful plaque, marking the home of George and Mary Bridgetower. As an Afro-European musician performing in the 18th century, George will have endured significantly more challenges in society than many of his contemporaries. It is wonderful and important to learn more about his remarkable story and exceptional achievements.
“George is in good company, as over the years many wonderful musicians of all nationalities have made a home here, in Southwark.
“I hope George’s story inspires and encourages local children of all backgrounds, to discover more about the achievements of the Black men and women, who have enriched music and culture throughout history.”