As the Founding Fathers launched the Revolutionary War in 1776, they also dispatched their most charming and skilled diplomat, Ben Franklin, on an assignment in Paris to secure crucial French military aid for the American Revolution. As one of the most colorful geniuses in American history, the 70-year-old Franklin knew that the way to win the hearts and loyalty of the French was to immerse himself in their cultural life. He undertook his assignment with gusto, attending concerts, ballroom dances, and opera performances, and meeting the great French writer, Voltaire. Apollo’s Fire evokes his musical adventures in this festive program of orchestral works that were performed in Paris during his 9-year stay, including Mozart’s “Paris” Symphony and highlights from a Rameau opera.

“Sorrell is a true Mozartian. Her Mozart achieves a near-perfect combination of real dramatic cogency and the ability to sing.”
–FANFARE Record Magazine

PRE-CONCERT TALK with with clarinetist Dominic Giardino, 1 hour before each performance.

The performance at First United Methodist is generously sponsored by GEORGE I. LITMAN, M.D. in honor of Barbara Feld.
The performance at the Cleveland Museum of Art is generously sponsored by MARILYN & TOM MCLAUGHLIN.

This program is made possible with generous support from the National Endowment for the Arts.

On Saturday night, join the artists after the concert for treats and sparkling drinks. Open to all.