Soundtrack of Independence
Recital: Revolution Tunes
John Walthausen, harpsichord
Harpsichordist John Walthausen plays music from Francis Hopkinson’s private music collection featuring both the “old” and “new” worlds.
May 9 & 12, 2026
Details
Francis Hopkinson amassed a treasure trove of harpsichord music from both the “old” and “new” worlds. From country dance to tunes from Highland reels and Philadelphia hymns, this recital will provide a glimpse into the popular music at the time of America’s founding.
Dates & Tickets
Performers & Creatives
John Walthausen, historic keyboards
Program
Handel: Overture from Alcina*
Handel, arrangement William Babell: “Lascia ch’io pianga”
Claude Bénigne: Balbastre: Air Champêtre *
John Christoper Smith: Lesson by Mr Smith*
Handel: Lesson by Mr. Handel*
Farinelli: Minuet*
Domenico Scarlatti: 4 Sonatas*
William Babell: Prelude in D-minor
Handel: Aria & Variations*
Felice Giardino: Lessons by Mr. Giardino*
Handel: Prelude to Watermusic*
* from Francis Hopkinson’s book of Harpsichord music
Major funding for Soundtrack of Independence as been provided by a grant from The 2026 Fund provided through the Philadelphia Funder Collaborative for the Semiquincentennial.
