February 18

Born in Rome in 1602, Michelangelo Cerquozzi became known for his dynamic genre paintings depicting everyday life, hunting scenes, and still lifes. He studied under painters such as Cerrini and was admitted to the Accademia di San Luca. Collaborating with artists like Pieter van Laer, he contributed to the Bamboccianti movement. His works were appreciated by patrons across Italy for their realistic detail and lively compositions. Cerquozzi's influence extended to Baroque artists who followed him. He died in 1660, leaving a legacy of vibrant genre painting.

Born in Bologna in 1632, Giovanni Battista Vitali studied with prominent musicians and became renowned for his skill on the viola da gamba and cello. He served as maestro di cappella in Modena and wrote numerous sonatas, partitas, and capriccios, encompassing both church and chamber music. His collections, such as 'Artificii musicali', showcase his innovative approach to form and instrumental color. Vitali's works influenced contemporaries including Corelli and contributed to shaping the sonata da chiesa and da camera genres. He died in 1692, remembered as a key figure in the evolution of Baroque instrumental music.

Johann Christian Kittel was born in Erfurt in 1732 and became one of the final direct students of J.S. Bach in Leipzig. He served as organist at the Michaeliskirche and later at St. Peter's Church, composing chorale preludes and keyboard exercises aimed at church use and pedagogy. Kittel published collections of organ music that preserved the Bach tradition and influenced subsequent organists. Known for blending Baroque counterpoint with emerging galant style, his works include the 'Clavier-Übung' and various motets. He also taught pupils who carried on his master's lineage. Kittel died in 1809, leaving a valuable bridge between Baroque and Classical keyboard music.

Emanuel Granberg was born in 1754 and emerged as a prominent church painter in Finland during a time of cultural growth. He traveled across Finnish parishes, decorating church interiors with vibrant frescoes, altarpieces, and ceiling paintings that combined local religious themes with Baroque influences. Although details of his training are scarce, his work reflects skilled draughtsmanship and a rich color palette. Granberg's paintings can still be seen in several historic churches, where they contribute to Finland's artistic heritage. He died in 1797, leaving behind enduring works that illustrate both religious devotion and artistic excellence.

Born in 1848 in New York City, Louis Comfort Tiffany was the son of jewelry magnate Charles Lewis Tiffany. He studied decorative arts in Europe before founding his own studio, Tiffany Glass Company, in 1885. Tiffany developed 'Favrile' glass, known for its rich colors and iridescent finish, and designed iconic lamps, windows, and mosaics. His work became synonymous with the American Arts and Crafts Movement and Art Nouveau. Tiffany's designs adorned churches, public buildings, and private homes, showcasing his mastery of color and light. He continued to innovate until his death in 1933, leaving a legacy that endures in museums and collections worldwide.

Born in 1850 in Breslau, Germany, George Henschel showed early talent as a pianist and singer. He studied composition under Johannes Brahms before embarking on a successful concert career across Europe. Henschel settled in England, marrying the pianist Lilian Bailey and collaborating on recitals. In 1881, he was appointed the first conductor of the newly formed Boston Symphony Orchestra, shaping its early repertoire and standards. Later, he returned to Europe and composed songs, chamber music, and choral works. Henschel's multifaceted career bridged German and Anglo-American musical worlds. He died in 1934, remembered for his contributions as a performer, composer, and conductor.

Anders Zorn (1860–1920) was a Swedish artist renowned for his vibrant portraits, graceful nudes, and dynamic genre scenes executed in oil, watercolor, and etching. He gained international acclaim in the late 19th century, exhibiting in Paris and London and earning top honors at the Paris Exposition of 1889. Zorn's masterful handling of light and fluid brushwork set him apart from his contemporaries. His works hang in major museums worldwide, including the Nationalmuseum in Stockholm and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Zorn remains one of Sweden's most celebrated artists.

William Laurel Harris (1870–1924) was an American painter and author whose impressionistic landscapes and portraits captured the evolving art scene of the early 20th century. He exhibited his work in regional galleries and contributed articles on painting techniques and aesthetics to art publications. Harris's dual talents as an artist and writer provided insight into contemporary artistic movements. His writings explored color theory and composition, influencing aspiring painters of his generation. Though lesser-known today, his creative output remains a window into American art history.

Henri Laurens (1885–1954) was a French artist who transitioned from illustration to become a leading Cubist sculptor after World War I. He created sinuous, abstract forms in stone and bronze that bridged geometric Cubism and organic curves. Laurens exhibited alongside Picasso, Braque, and Gris in Paris salons, influencing the evolution of modern sculpture. His works are held in major collections including the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Centre Pompidou in Paris. Laurens's innovative approach left a lasting mark on 20th-century art.

Pee Wee King was an American country music pioneer known for blending folk melodies with western swing. He co-wrote 'Tennessee Waltz,' one of the best-selling singles of the 20th century, which became a country and pop standard. King helped found the Country Music Association and served as its first president, shaping the industry's structure. He hosted radio programs and toured extensively, bringing country music to national audiences. His energetic performances and songwriting talent earned him induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. King's influence is heard in the melodies and rhythms that continue to define American country music today.

Born on February 18, 1920, in Montmorency, France. She studied organ under Marcel Dupré and won first prize at the Paris Conservatoire in 1939. Falcinelli performed internationally, acclaimed for her interpretations of both classical and contemporary organ works. As a composer, she created numerous pieces for organ, choir, and chamber ensembles. She served on the faculty of the Paris Conservatoire, influencing generations of organists. Falcinelli published influential pedagogical works and scholarly articles on organ technique. She passed away in 2006, leaving a significant legacy in French musical education.

Born on February 18, 1921, in Odesa, Ukraine. He studied at the Moscow Conservatory, where he developed his skills as a composer and pianist. Feltsman wrote dozens of songs that became hits across the Soviet Union, blending classical and popular styles. He composed music for films, theater, and television, showcasing versatility in various genres. Feltsman served as chairman of the Union of Soviet Composers' Moscow branch, supporting fellow musicians. He received numerous honors, including the People's Artist of the RSFSR title. He died in 2013, leaving a rich catalog of memorable melodies.