A Bethlehem man who embodied the Moravian musical tradition, John Antes is credited with building the first American-made violin in 1759, as well as being the first American composer of chamber music. His best-known chamber compositions, the Three Trio’s, were written during a extended stay in Egypt.
After spending his early years as a Bethlehem musician and craftsman, Antes was called to serve as a church missionary to Egypt, where he lived for twelve years. During his time in Egypt, Ottoman Turks captured and tortured Antes, an event that would traumatize him for the rest of his life. Following the incident, Antes continued to compose many devotional works of music. Antes is regarded as a pioneer and maverick for both his daring life story and his unique, moving compositions.
