March 20

Born in 1680 in Sicily, Italy. Studied music at the Neapolitan conservatories under prominent masters. Gained fame for his oratorio 'San Sepolcro' and 'Il Paride'. Traveled through Spain and France, influencing the Baroque style. His works blended dramatic flair with devout religious themes, leaving a mark on 18th-century music.

George Caleb Bingham was a 19th-century American painter celebrated for his vivid depictions of daily life along the Missouri River. His genre paintings, such as 'Fur Traders Descending the Missouri,' capture the spirit of the American frontier. Bingham served two terms as State Treasurer of Missouri, blending his artistic vision with public service. He helped popularize the Luminist style and influenced generations of American artists. His work remains a touchstone for understanding 19th-century America.

Sir Edward Poynter was a prominent 19th-century English painter known for his classical and historical works. He studied in France and was influenced by continental artistic movements. Poynter became Keeper and later President of the Royal Academy, where he championed art education and public exhibitions. His murals and illustrations graced major institutions in London. Knighted for his contributions, he shaped the direction of British art.

Illarion Pryanishnikov was a leading 19th-century Russian painter associated with the Peredvizhniki (Wanderers). He studied at the Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture and embraced critical realism. Pryanishnikov's celebrated work 'Jokers' captured the humor and pathos of everyday Russian life. As a teacher, he influenced the next generation of realist artists. His paintings remain acclaimed examples of Russian social commentary.

John Lavery (1856–1941) studied art in Glasgow and Paris before rising to prominence in London’s art circles. He became renowned for his luminous Impressionist portraits, capturing high society and intimate domestic scenes. During World War I, Lavery served as an official war artist, documenting military life and the front lines. Knighted in 1918 for his artistic achievements, he continued to paint influential works that blended realism with impressionistic light. His legacy endures in major museum collections around the world.

Melchior trained at the Royal Danish Conservatory and made his operatic debut in Copenhagen. He rose to fame as the foremost heldentenor of his era, specializing in Wagnerian repertoire. Joining the Metropolitan Opera in 1926, he performed in over 220 productions, including Tristan und Isolde. He appeared in several Hollywood films, bringing operatic singing to wider audiences. Known as the "King of the Wagnerian Tenors," his robust voice and heroic interpretations set new standards. After retiring in the 1950s, he taught masterclasses, influencing generations of dramatic tenors.

Colquhoun studied at the National Gallery of Victoria Art School, honing her technique in painting. She captured the Australian bush and coastal scenes with bold brushstrokes and luminous color. Her portraits depicted prominent figures and everyday individuals with sensitivity and depth. A member of the Victorian Artists Society, she exhibited widely across Australia. Her impressionistic style reflected an appreciation for light and atmosphere in both landscapes and portraits. Colquhoun also taught art, nurturing a generation of young Australian painters.

Wiiralt studied at the Pallas Art School in Tartu before refining his craft in Paris. He became celebrated for etchings like 'Old Man's Head' and dynamic compositions of rural life. His works blend realism with subtle symbolism and often comment on social themes. Exhibiting internationally during the 1930s, he earned recognition in Europe and beyond. After World War II, he fled to Germany and later settled in Sweden, continuing his art. Wiiralt remains a towering figure in Baltic graphic art, inspiring printmakers to this day.

Ozzie Nelson rose to fame as the leader of the Ozzie Nelson Orchestra during the swing era. Alongside his wife Harriet, he created and starred in the long-running radio and television series 'The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet.' The show became a cultural touchstone, depicting an idealized American family life. Nelson wrote, directed, and produced many episodes, showcasing his talents behind and in front of the camera. His work influenced family sitcoms for generations to come. As a musician and entertainer, Nelson left a lasting mark on mid-20th-century American popular culture.

Born on March 20, 1915, near Zhytomyr in what is now Ukraine. Richter emerged as one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century, admired for technical mastery and deep musical insight. His repertoire spanned Bach, Beethoven, and modern composers, and his live performances gained legendary status. He taught at the Moscow Conservatory and influenced generations of pianists. Richter continued to perform and record until his death in 1997, leaving an enduring artistic legacy.

Born on March 20, 1915, in Cotton Plant, Arkansas. Sister Rosetta Tharpe blended spiritual lyrics with electric guitar rhythms, creating a new sound that paved the way for rock and roll. She achieved fame in the 1930s and ’40s with hits like “Strange Things Happening Every Day.” Her dynamic performances inspired artists such as Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry. Despite challenges as a Black woman in segregated America, she toured internationally and gained widespread acclaim. She died in 1973, and her contributions were later recognized with her induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Born on March 20, 1917, in East Ham, England. Vera Lynn rose to fame during World War II with classics like “We’ll Meet Again” and “The White Cliffs of Dover,” which comforted troops and civilians alike. She toured military bases and hospitals, earning her the nickname “The Forces’ Sweetheart.” After the war, she continued recording and performing, and dedicated herself to charity work supporting veterans. She remained active well into her later years and passed away in 2020 at the age of 103, leaving a legacy of hope and resilience.