Thomas Jefferson heard Julie Candeille in Paris, the American stage shone with the voice of Maria Storer, Benjamin Franklin fell head over heels for Madame Brillon and her music, Charlotte Le Pelletier self published music in Baltimore, and Mrs. Grattan held public “Ladies’ Concerts” in Philadelphia. Though women had few rights, could not hold property or vote – they dominated musical performance spaces – not just in the home salon! Join The Publick Pleasure as we perform the music of women composers and performers from early America.
This program will take place inside the church sanctuary, followed by a reception in Riverside Hall. Admission is $35 for Adult and $15 for Student w/ID, which includes a drink ticket for a beverage of your choice (alcoholic or non-alcoholic). Advanced adult tickets are available at a discounted rate of $30 each until the day before the program.
This program is hosted by Preserve Old Swedes, the non-profit organization that preserves and interprets Philadelphia’s historic Gloria Dei (Old Swedes’) Church and its graveyard. A portion of the proceeds from this event will go toward the preservation of this national historic site.
The Publick Pleasure evolved as a way to share American history through the lens of America’s musical life and to present unique early American concert repertoire in friendly, creative, and approachable concert settings. The Publick Pleasure performs repertoire heard in early American concerts, salons and homes on period instruments. Programs are based on research utilizing contemporary sources such as programs, newspapers, magazines, journals, diaries, financial records, first hand accounts, music publications, and letters.