A Hessian Holiday Concert with Tempesta di Mare

What do the Hessian oboists captured by General Washington in 1776 have to do with today’s vice presidential march? Watch this concert and discussion that aired on Dec. 28, 2021, exploring the surprising German influence on early American music, performed by ensemble members of Philadelphia Baroque Orchestra Tempesta di Mare and hosted by Museum Curator of Exhibitions Matthew Skic with illustrated comments from Ulrike Shapiro, Executive Director at Tempesta di Mare and a native of Celle, Germany.

Hear music the oboists might have played in 1776, music played on the first anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 1777, and music of the early Federal Period performed by ensemble members of Philadelphia Baroque Orchestra Tempesta di Mare, including Fiona Last, oboe; Dominic Giardino, clarinet; Ben Matus, bassoon; Todd Williams, horn; and Michelle Humphreys, drums.

This program was inspired by the Museum’s special exhibition, Liberty: Don Troiani’s Paintings of the Revolutionary War, which includes Troiani’s painting of the Hessians at the Battle of Trenton. The year 2021 also marked the 245th anniversary of the “10 Crucial Days” during which Washington’s army famously crossed the Delaware River and won battles at Trenton and Princeton, helping the American Revolutionaries avoid a quick defeat.