May 08

Pietro Longhi was born in Venice in 1701 and trained under local masters. He specialized in small-scale oil paintings capturing scenes of Venetian aristocracy at social gatherings. His works, such as 'The Ridotto in Venice' and 'The Dance Lesson', blend realism with satirical wit. Longhi’s paintings offer a vivid window into 18th-century Venetian customs and fashion. Unlike grand historical canvases, he focused on everyday life and private moments. He influenced later genre painters before his death on May 8, 1785.

Born in 1781 in Italy, Giuliani became one of the most celebrated guitar virtuosos of his era. He performed across Europe, dazzling audiences with his technical skill and expressive playing. Giuliani composed over 150 works for guitar, including concertos, sonatas, and études. He collaborated with prominent musicians in Vienna and influenced the Romantic guitar tradition. His compositions remain staples in classical guitar repertoire. He died in 1828, leaving a lasting legacy in instrumental music.

Born in 1848 in Paris, Paul Gauguin began his career as a stockbroker before dedicating himself to art. He developed his style in Brittany and later traveled to Tahiti, seeking to capture the 'primitive' life in vibrant, abstract forms. Gauguin’s work features flattened perspectives, symbolic use of color, and simplified shapes that influenced modern art movements. He formed friendships and rivalries with contemporaries like Vincent van Gogh but struggled with financial hardship and ill health. Despite limited recognition during his lifetime, his daring approach to composition and color paved the way for Expressionism and Primitivism. Gauguin died in 1903 on the Marquesas Islands, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire artists worldwide.

Neil Bogart was an American record executive and producer who co-founded Casablanca Records, a label synonymous with the 1970s pop and disco explosion. Born Neil Scott Bogatz in 1943 in New York, he launched his career at Cameo-Parkway Records before establishing Buddah Records and later Casablanca. Under his leadership, Casablanca signed iconic acts such as KISS, Donna Summer, Parliament, and the Village People, propelling them to international stardom. Bogart's innovative marketing strategies and flair for promotion helped define the era's musical landscape. Despite his untimely death from cancer at age 38, his influence endures through the hit records and legendary artists he championed. Known for his bold personality and visionary instincts, Bogart left an indelible mark on the music industry.

Karl Marx was born in Berlin in 1897 and studied music at the Hochschule für Musik before embarking on a conducting career. He led major German radio orchestras, introducing audiences to both classical masterworks and contemporary compositions. As a composer, Marx wrote symphonic pieces, chamber music, and film scores characterized by melodic richness and emotional depth. His dual role as conductor and composer made him a respected figure in mid-20th century European music circles. He also held teaching positions, influencing a generation of musicians through masterclasses and lectures. He died on May 8, 1985, leaving behind a body of work that continues to be performed and recorded.

Luigi Nono was born in 1924 in Venice, Italy, and emerged as a leading figure in post-war avant-garde music. He studied composition under Bruno Maderna and embraced serialism in his early works. Nono's oeuvre is marked by a deep commitment to political and social themes, often reflecting his anti-fascist beliefs. He was a pioneer in integrating live electronics with traditional instrumentation, as heard in pieces such as "Intolleranza 1960" and "Prometeo". As an educator, Nono taught at various institutions, influencing a generation of composers with his experimental approach. His innovative use of spatialization and electronic soundscapes left a lasting impact on contemporary music. Nono died in 1990, leaving behind a legacy of artistic activism and sonic exploration.

Jean Langlais was born in 1907 in Brittany, France, and showed an early talent for music despite losing his sight in infancy. He studied at the Paris Conservatoire, earning top honors in piano, organ, and composition. Langlais wrote extensively for keyboard, blending traditional forms with modern harmonies in works such as "Suite Médiévale" and "Marche Solennelle". As a performer, he was acclaimed for his improvisational skill, giving recitals across Europe and North America. He served as a professor at the Paris Conservatoire, nurturing a new generation of keyboard artists. Langlais's music, with its rich textures and spiritual depth, remains a staple of 20th-century repertoire. He passed away in 1991, leaving behind a body of work that continues to inspire musicians.

Rudolf Serkin was born in 1903 in the Austro-Hungarian Empire and trained under Ferruccio Busoni. He became renowned for his clarity, intellectual rigor, and emotional depth in performances of Beethoven, Mozart, and Schubert. Serkin co-founded the Marlboro Music School and Festival in Vermont, fostering chamber music collaborations and mentoring young artists. He served on the faculty of the Curtis Institute of Music, influencing generations of pianists with his high artistic standards. Over his career, Serkin recorded extensively and performed worldwide as both soloist and chamber musician. His commitment to musical integrity made him a model of pianistic excellence. Serkin passed away in 1991, leaving a legacy as one of the 20th century’s greatest interpreters and educators.

Teresa Teng was born in 1953 in Baozhong, Taiwan, and demonstrated musical talent from a young age. She rose to fame in the 1970s and 1980s with hits like "The Moon Represents My Heart" and "When Will You Return?", captivating audiences across Greater China, Japan, and Southeast Asia. Teng recorded in multiple languages, including Mandarin, Cantonese, Japanese, and English, showcasing her versatility. Her intimate performance style and clear, emotive voice resonated deeply during a period of dynamic cultural change. Teng also appeared in films and television, further cementing her status as a cultural icon. Despite her untimely passing in 1995, her music continues to influence artists and remain a staple in Asian pop culture.

Garth Williams was a prolific illustrator whose charming and expressive drawings brought beloved stories to life. He collaborated with celebrated authors like E.B. White and Margery Williams Bianco, creating images that have captivated generations. His delicate pen-and-ink style and use of soft watercolors defined mid-20th century children’s book illustration. Williams received a Caldecott Honor and several other awards. He also wrote and illustrated his own books, showcasing his storytelling alongside his art. His influence endures as contemporary illustrators continue to draw inspiration from his work.

Dédé Fortin led Les Colocs to national success in the 1990s, blending rock with folk and socially conscious lyrics. His heartfelt songwriting addressed themes of love, addiction, and Quebec identity, resonating deeply with fans. Fortin’s dynamic stage presence and poetic sensibility earned him critical acclaim and multiple Félix Awards. Beyond music, he was an outspoken advocate for social issues, including homelessness and mental health. After the band's dissolution, Fortin continued to write and perform solo material, expanding his artistic reach. His untimely death in 2000 left a profound impact on the Quebec music community and solidified his status as a cultural icon.

Born in 1920 in Nova Friburgo, Brazil, Elvira Pagã became famous as one of the country's first vedettes. She rose to prominence in the 1940s with her daring stage presence in nightclubs and theaters. As a singer, she recorded several popular samba and bossa nova tracks that showcased her vibrant voice. Pagã was also a talented visual artist, known for her avant-garde costumes and paintings. Her fearless performances challenged conservative norms in mid-20th-century Brazilian society. She appeared in several films and collaborated with prominent musicians and choreographers. Elvira Pagã passed away in 2003, leaving a legacy as a trailblazer for women in Brazilian entertainment.