Just So In the North

Today we would like to introduce you to Ignatius Sancho who was born in 1727 on a slave ship from West Africa to the West Indies. He was orphaned by 2 years old when he was sold to sisters living in London. At some point during his childhood he met the Duke of Montague who eventually bought him and taught him to read, write and also music. When the Dutchess of Montague died, Sancho became free, married and owned a grocery. He primarily wrote minuets and other dances. Wren enjoyed playing Just So In the North and she says likes this piece because “it’s very lively.” She also “especially likes the contrast between the two themes.” The music made her feel “happy and free.” I wonder if Sancho could help us feel this freedom because he understood what it felt like to live without it? Just So In the North was written around 1767.

Historical information and arrangements from Music by Black Composers (MBC) Violin Volume 1. Published by Ludwig Masters Publications 2018. Rachel Barton Pine Foundation.