Recognition for brilliant Peckham violinist who fell out with Beethoven

A virtuoso violinist who was once a favourite of Beethoven has been honoured with a heritage plaque in the Peckham street where he once lived. 

A blue plaque went up for George Bridgetower at Jack Jones House, 12 Reedham Street, 244 years after the day of his birth.

Mr Bridgetower’s mother and father were from Germany and Barbados, but he was born in Poland on October 11, 1778 and his career took him all over the world, but he finally settled in South London.   

After demonstrating early talent, Mr Bridgetower’s father took him on a tour of Europe, where his reputation as a gifted violinist was established. 

Aged just 10, Mr Bridgetower was already a soloist at the Drury Lane Theatre, where he made such an impression that the Prince Regent, the future King George IV, agreed to pay for his musical education. 

The young violinist went on to travel and stun audiences across Europe. He met and performed with Beethoven in Vienna in 1803. At this time, Mr Bridgetower was considered one of the greatest violinists to have lived.  

Beethoven was so impressed that he dedicated his Violin Sonata No 9 in A minor to Mr Bridgetower.

However, the two later fell out over a woman, causing Beethoven to rededicate Sonata No 9 to the violinist Rodolphe Kreutzer, who never played the piece, saying it was too complicated.  

George Bridgetower had continued success and was elected to the Royal Society of Musicians. However, his fallout with Beethoven certainly affected his career.  

George and his wife, Mary Leech Leake, were married in London in 1816 and later travelled between London and Italy, where their daughter lived.

Mary died in 1835 and Mr Bridgetower went on to live at 8 Victory Cottages in Peckham until his death in 1860. He is buried in Kensal Green Cemetery.  

In 1970, George and Mary’s house was demolished, and a retirement home was later built on the site.

Today it is called Jack Jones House, named in memory of the famous trade unionist who lived there. It is here that a plaque now marks Mr Bridgetower’s great talent and achievements. 

Southwark council and Sony Music Entertainment sponsored the George Bridgetower plaque, working with the Nubian Jak Community Trust on its 77th London blue plaque. 

Cllr Catherine Rose, cabinet member for leisure, parks, streets and 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 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.” 

Jak Beula, chief executive of the Nubian Jak Community Trust, said: “George Bridgetower, quite simply, is the greatest violin virtuoso this country has ever seen.

“His plaque will be music to the ears of those who have been calling for him to be recognised and re-celebrated.”   

Pictured top: A gathering at the official unveiling of the George Bridgetower plaque (Pictures: Lewis Patrick)