On Tuesday, December 11, 1781, Francis Hopkinson premiered America Independent, or The Temple of Minerva, the first American oratorio. George and Martha Washington, General Greene and his wife, the Minister of France and many other dignitaries were in attendance, alongside members of the public.

Hopkinson, a noted Philadelphia musician, composer and organizer of performances, utilized a suite of excellent pre-existing music by Handel, Michael and Arne and set to his own words, featuring four allegorical characters: Minerva, The Genius of France, The Genius of America, and the High Priest of Minerva.

Now, we have pulled together the parts of the original score for its first fully orchestral performance in 250 years. Join us!