A Selection of Monticello Music

Listen to music Thomas Jefferson loved — from Scottish fiddle tunes and comic opera to Corelli and Haydn — performed by the Sugar Ridge Quartet and others.

25 minutes, listening

“ the favorite passion of my soul”
Thomas Jefferson, 1778
A violin and sheet music resting on top of a harpsichord in Thomas Jefferson's Parlor at Monticello.

Jefferson called music "the favorite passion of my soul." An accomplished amateur violinist and avid concertgoer, he filled Monticello with song. Listen to a selection of pieces drawn from his world — from popular tunes of the day to classical works he knew and loved, performed by the Sugar Ridge Quartet and friends.

Brief Introduction

Overture from 'Love in a Village: A Comic Opera' by Thomas Arne

Over the Hills and Far Away from 'The Beggar's Opera'

Money Musk

Sonata #4, Opus 2, by Arcangelo Corelli - Preludido

Sonata #4, Opus 2, by Arcangelo Corelli - Giga

Sonata #4, Opus 2, by Arcangelo Corelli - Allemande

Sonata #1 from XII Solos, Opus 2 by Antonio Vivaldi

From Symphony No. 66 In B Flat Major: Finale by Josef Haydn

Symphony No. 3 In G Major: III Minuet & Trio by Josef Haydn

Broom of the Cowdenknowes

Handwritten sheet music by Thomas Jefferson showing notation for two songs including Money Musk, approximately 17 bars.

Sheet music with notation for two songs in Jefferson's hand, including Money Musk