April 17

Antonio Bertali (1605–1669) was an influential Baroque composer and virtuoso violinist from Verona. In 1636, he joined the imperial court orchestra in Vienna and later became the court Kapellmeister. His oeuvre includes operas, oratorios, chamber music, and instrumental sonatas, blending Italian melodic sensibilities with Viennese traditions. Though many of his stage works are lost, his surviving instrumental and choral compositions reveal a distinctive lyrical style. Bertali’s music influenced subsequent generations of composers at the Habsburg court. Today, modern ensembles and recordings have revived interest in his contribution to early Baroque repertoire.

Johann Mattheson was a multifaceted musician who served as a composer, conductor, and music theorist in Hamburg. Born in 1681, he was a close friend of George Frideric Handel and collaborated with him on operatic projects. Mattheson wrote one of the earliest musical dictionaries, the 'Der brauchbare Musik-Glossar', which helped standardize musical terminology. His major theoretical work, 'Das neu-eröffnete Orchestre', offered insights into orchestration and performance practice of the Baroque era. He also composed operas, oratorios, and chamber music that reflected his deep understanding of dramatic expression. After retiring from active musical life, he continued to write and shape the study of music until his death in 1764.

Alexander Golovin was a Russian artist celebrated for his lyrical paintings and innovative stage designs. A graduate of the Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture, he collaborated with Konstantin Stanislavski. His costume and set designs for the Moscow Art Theatre revolutionized theatrical aesthetics in the early 20th century. Golovin's watercolor portraits and landscapes reflect a blend of Symbolism and Impressionism. He also taught at the Academy of Arts and influenced a generation of Russian scenographers. His work bridged fine art and theater, leaving a lasting impact on both disciplines.

Eddie Cochran was born in 1938 in Albert Lea, Minnesota, and raised in California. A talented guitarist and songwriter, he signed with Liberty Records in 1957. His energetic style and innovative guitar riffs produced classics like "Summertime Blues" and "C’mon Everybody." Cochran toured the United Kingdom in 1960, where he influenced many British rock musicians. Tragically, he died in a car accident in Wiltshire, England, at the age of 21 on April 17, 1960. Despite his short career, his music left a lasting impact on the development of rock music.

Red Allen was born Henry Allen in New Orleans in 1908 and was raised in a musical family. He gained recognition for his trumpet playing in the bands of Lionel Hampton and Fletcher Henderson. Allen’s warm tone and innovative phrasing made him a standout soloist during the swing era. He also showcased his singing talents with a unique vocal style on several recordings. Throughout his career, he led his own ensembles and recorded prolifically for major jazz labels. Red Allen left a lasting influence on jazz trumpet technique before his death in 1967.

Felix Pappalardi was born in New York City in 1939 and trained as a classical cellist before entering the music industry. He became a staff producer at Atlantic Records, working on landmark albums by Cream and other British rock bands. In 1969, he co-formed the band Mountain, writing and producing their hit "Mississippi Queen." Pappalardi’s rich bass playing and production expertise helped define the sound of early heavy rock. He continued to record and produce for various artists throughout the 1970s. In a tragic domestic incident, he died from a gunshot wound on April 17, 1983. His contributions to rock music production and performance remain influential.

Born in Ukraine and raised in the United States, Nevelson became a leading figure in the abstract expressionist movement. She pioneered the use of salvaged wood and found objects to create towering, puzzle-like sculptures painted in stark black, white, or gold. Her signature wall reliefs transformed discarded materials into monumental works of art displayed worldwide. Nevelson's bold vision challenged traditional notions of sculpture and space. In addition to her artistic practice, she taught at several institutions, inspiring generations of artists. She received numerous awards and retrospective exhibitions during her lifetime. Today, her innovative work continues to influence contemporary art and installation practices.

Born Linda Eastman in 1941, she gained fame as a rock photographer for publications like Rolling Stone. In 1969 she married Paul McCartney and co-founded the band Wings, contributing as a keyboardist and songwriter. An outspoken vegetarian and animal rights advocate, she launched the Linda McCartney Foods brand featuring meat-free products. Her photographs captured legendary musicians and cultural moments of the 1960s and 1970s. Linda's creative spirit and activism made her a beloved figure until her passing in 1998.

Born Earl Silas Johnson in 1934 in New Orleans, Earl King merged blues and R&B to craft his signature style. He wrote classics like 'Come On' and 'Trick Bag,' later covered by artists including The Rolling Stones. King recorded dozens of singles and albums, collaborating with legends like Dr. John and Professor Longhair. His songwriting and guitar work left an indelible mark on New Orleans rhythm and blues. He continued performing until his death in 2003, celebrated as a pioneer of Louisiana music.

Born in 1910, Kitty Carlisle rose to fame in Hollywood musicals during the 1930s. Her graceful performances on stage and screen showcased her rich singing voice and charm. She later became a beloved television personality, appearing for decades as a panelist on popular game shows. Carlisle's wit and sophistication made her a fixture of American entertainment culture. Beyond performance, she was an advocate for the arts and frequently appeared as a host and commentator. Her career spanned over seventy years, reflecting a deep passion for music, theater, and television.

Born in 1950, Danny Federici began his musical journey performing in local bands. He became a founding member of a major American rock group, where his expressive organ and accordion work stood out. His melodic riffs and soulful solos became signature elements of the band's most memorable songs. Federici toured the world, bringing his unique keyboard textures to live audiences. He appeared on numerous gold and platinum albums throughout his career. Federici passed away in 2008, and his musical contributions continue to influence rock keyboardists today.

Born in Austria in 1926, Eric Gross emigrated to Australia after World War II. He studied piano and composition at leading conservatories before embarking on a career as a composer-performer. Gross created works spanning orchestral, chamber, and solo piano repertoire, often blending traditional and modern techniques. His compositions were performed by major ensembles in Australia and internationally. As a pianist, he championed new music and premiered works by emerging composers. He taught composition and piano to a generation of Australian musicians, sharing his passion for the art. Gross passed away in 2011, leaving a rich and varied musical legacy.