April 14

Born in Paris in 1709, Collé became known for his comedic one-act plays performed in Parisian salons. He composed numerous songs that captured the spirit of pre-revolutionary France with humor and satire. A close friend of composer Jean-Philippe Rameau, he collaborated on musical entertainments that blended theater and music. His works influenced later dramatists and contributed to the evolution of French vaudeville. Collé published memoirs and literary correspondence that provide valuable insights into 18th-century cultural life. He died in 1783, remembered as a key figure in the development of French comedic theater.

An influential member of the Arts and Crafts movement, he integrated architectural design with handcrafted pottery and decorative arts. He collaborated with leading designers of his time to revive traditional ceramic techniques and promote artisanal craftsmanship. Powell's pottery featured simple forms and subtle glazes that emphasized the beauty of materials. Beyond his designs, he lectured and taught to inspire a new generation of craftspeople. His work helped shape early 20th-century British decorative arts.

A visionary German architect and designer, Behrens pioneered modern industrial aesthetics and corporate branding. In 1907, he became artistic consultant for AEG, where he designed factories and established one of the first cohesive corporate identities. He emphasized functional forms and unified design elements, influencing the Bauhaus and modernist movements. Behrens also mentored future luminaries such as Walter Gropius and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. His legacy endures in the principles of modern architecture and design.

A leading figure of the Russian Symbolist movement, he created poetic landscapes infused with dreamlike atmospheres. Trained at the Moscow School of Painting, he traveled in Europe to study classical and modern art traditions. Borisov-Musatov's works often depicted parklands and villas bathed in soft light, evoking emotional resonance over realism. He exhibited with the World of Art group, helping shape early 20th-century Russian art. His innovative style left a lasting impact despite his untimely death at 35.

Robert Doisneau pioneered humanist photography, capturing spontaneous moments in postwar Parisian streets. He was a photojournalist for magazines such as Vogue and Life, balancing artistry with documentary. His iconic photograph "Le baiser de l'hôtel de ville" (The Kiss) became a symbol of romantic Paris. Doisneau’s warm, humorous eye revealed the charm and complexity of ordinary people. His work was exhibited worldwide and influenced generations of photographers. He remained active until his later years, leaving behind a rich visual legacy when he died in 1994.

Jean Fournet studied at the Paris Conservatoire and began his conducting career in the 1930s. He led major orchestras including the Paris Opera, Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, and Tokyo Philharmonic. Fournet was praised for his precise technique and sensitivity to musical detail. He championed French repertoire by composers such as Debussy and Ravel, as well as classical symphonies. His recordings and live performances earned him international acclaim and a lasting influence on orchestral music. He continued conducting into his nineties, celebrating a career that spanned over seven decades.

Mary Healy began performing as a child on radio before rising to fame in Broadway musicals during the 1940s and 1950s. Her versatile soprano voice and charismatic stage presence earned her leading roles in shows such as Spring in Brazil and Call Me Madam. Healy transitioned to television, co-hosting variety programs and guest-starring in popular series. She also appeared in films and continued concert performances throughout her career. A consummate entertainer, she was admired for her warmth, wit, and vocal talent. Mary Healy’s contributions to American entertainment spanned over six decades.

Shamshad Begum was one of the first female playback singers in Indian cinema, rising to prominence in the 1940s. Her rich, emotive voice graced hundreds of Hindi film songs across multiple decades. She collaborated with legendary composers like Naushad and Khemchand Prakash, delivering chart-topping hits. Begum’s versatile singing style ranged from folk to classical-infused melodies. Despite retiring in the 1970s, her songs remain beloved classics and are frequently remixed or covered. She received awards and recognition for her pioneering role in shaping Bollywood’s musical heritage.

Milton 'Shorty' Rogers (1924–1994) was an American jazz trumpeter, composer, and arranger who helped define the West Coast jazz sound. He rose to prominence with Woody Herman's Second Herd, contributing to the famed 'Four Brothers' saxophone section. Rogers released influential albums for Capitol Records, blending cool jazz with Latin rhythms. He composed memorable tunes like 'Martians Go Home' and arranged for big bands led by Stan Kenton. His work in film and television scores further showcased his versatility, and his legacy continues to inspire jazz musicians.

Gloria Jean (1926-2018) was an American actress and singer celebrated for her performances in classic Hollywood musicals. She made her screen debut at age 12 and quickly became known for her bright soprano voice and charismatic on-screen presence. Over the 1940s, Gloria Jean starred in a series of musical comedies and features that showcased her vocal talent and acting abilities. In addition to film, she toured in live performances and contributed to radio shows, entertaining audiences nationwide. Her work helped define an era of light-hearted musical cinema and left an imprint on the Golden Age of Hollywood.

Dany Robin (1927-1995) was a French actress and singer who appeared in numerous films from the 1940s through the 1960s. She gained acclaim for her versatility, transitioning between dramatic roles and musical performances with ease. Robin starred in popular European comedies and suspense films and recorded several songs that showcased her warm vocal style. Her charismatic presence made her a beloved figure in French entertainment, and she worked with prominent directors of her time. After a successful film career, she continued performing in theater and cabaret. Robin's blend of acting talent and musical ability left a lasting mark on post-war French cinema.

Gerry Anderson (1929-2012) was an English filmmaker who revolutionized television with his pioneering 'Supermarionation' technique, combining puppetry and special effects. He created iconic series including 'Thunderbirds', 'Stingray', and 'Captain Scarlet', which became global hits and defined a new era of children's adventure programming. Anderson directed, produced, and wrote many episodes, showcasing his vision for futuristic storytelling. He also ventured into live-action films and spin-off projects, expanding his creative footprint. Throughout his career, Anderson earned a reputation for technical innovation, meticulous model work, and engaging narratives. His contributions influenced not only television but also the broader science fiction genre. Anderson's legacy endures through enduring franchises and the continued popularity of his pioneering techniques.