Les Délices, Cleveland’s acclaimed early music ensemble, shines a bright light on the often-overlooked legacy of Charles Ignatius Sancho. Charles Ignatius Sancho (1729-1780) was an abolitionist, musician, writer, and the first British man of African descent to vote in a general election. This free multi-event series promises an immersive journey into Black British culture and early music, fostering inclusivity and sparking conversations about identity and artistic expression.

Les Délices Artistic Director Debra Nagy commented, “Sancho’s surviving music includes a book of songs as well as minuets for the ballroom and country dances from the alehouse. Though the name Sancho is well known to literary and art historians, his music is only beginning to get the attention it deserves. Not only is it important to recognize Sancho’s contributions in the field of music, but – simply put – his music is a joy to play and to listen to. It’s full of life and rife with catchy tunes!”

Soprano Andréa Walker joins Les Délices’ ensemble of baroque oboe, violin, cello, and harpsichord for “Sounds of Sancho’s London,” featuring parlor songs inspired by Shakespeare, Scottish reels and country dances, popular melodies of the day by Thomas Arne, plus selections from George Frederick Handel’s famous Music for the Royal Fireworks.