May 18

Mathew Brady (1822–1896) is often regarded as the father of photojournalism in the United States. He captured some of the most iconic images of the American Civil War, bringing the realities of conflict to the public eye. Brady's studio in New York City produced portraits of Presidents, military figures, and celebrities of his era. Despite critical acclaim, he faced financial difficulties after the war and many of his works went out of print. His legacy endures in the study of photography and journalistic documentation of war.

Gertrude Käsebier (1852–1934) was a pioneering American photographer known for her soft-focus, emotive portraits. She gained fame for her studies of motherhood and Native American subjects, often highlighted in major exhibitions. Käsebier was a founding member of the Photo-Secession, advocating for photography as fine art. She mentored other women photographers, helping to establish professional organizations for female artists. Her work influenced early modernist photography and continues to be celebrated in galleries worldwide.

Bernard Zweers (1854–1924) was a leading Dutch composer of the late Romantic period, celebrated for his symphonic poems. His masterpiece 'Het Lied der Schelde' remains one of the most performed works in the Netherlands. As a professor at the Amsterdam Conservatory, Zweers influenced a generation of Dutch musicians and composers. He embraced Dutch folk melodies and national themes, helping to establish a distinct Dutch musical identity. His legacy endures through his compositions and his impact on Dutch music education.

Born in 1883 in Germany, Walter Gropius revolutionized modern architecture with his functional and minimalist designs. In 1919, he founded the Bauhaus School, which became a hub for avant-garde art, architecture, and design. Gropius emphasized the unity of art, craft, and technology, influencing generations of designers worldwide. He emigrated to the United States in 1937, teaching at Harvard University and shaping American architectural education. Among his notable works is the John F. Kennedy Federal Building in Boston. Gropius's legacy lives on through his contributions to modernist architecture and design education.

Born in 1892 in Rome, Ezio Pinza became one of the most celebrated opera basses of the early 20th century, performing at La Scala and the Metropolitan Opera. His powerful, resonant voice brought him international acclaim in roles such as Don Giovanni and Figaro. In the 1940s, Pinza transitioned to Hollywood, starring in films and on Broadway, including the hit musical 'South Pacific' where he originated the role of Emile de Becque. His charismatic stage presence and vocal prowess made him a crossover star in both opera and popular theater. Pinza's groundbreaking career bridged European opera and American entertainment before his death in 1957.

Henri Sauguet was a 20th-century French composer celebrated for his graceful melodies and elegant harmonic language. His works often feature clear textures across opera, ballet, chamber pieces, and choral music. Sauguet's ballet 'Les Forains' and opera 'Les Caprices de Marianne' remain staples of the French repertoire. He composed film scores and collaborated on theatrical productions, blending lyricism with dramatic flair. Throughout his career, Sauguet maintained a distinctive style marked by emotional warmth and refined craftsmanship. In the post-war years, he supported younger composers and held leadership roles in institutions like the Opéra-Comique. His music continues to be performed internationally for its accessible charm and sophisticated elegance.

Meredith Willson was a versatile American composer, bandleader, playwright, and flautist whose work spanned theater, radio, and film. He achieved his greatest success with the 1957 Broadway musical 'The Music Man', which won five Tony Awards and produced hits like '76 Trombones'. Earlier, he performed as a flautist with John Philip Sousa's band and led his own orchestra on national radio. Willson also wrote the book, music, and lyrics for 'The Unsinkable Molly Brown', further showcasing his theatrical flair. He published memoirs recounting his rise from small-town Iowa to Broadway stages. Willson’s music is celebrated for its melodic inventiveness, witty storytelling, and spirit of Americana. His contributions helped define the Golden Age of American musical theater.

One of the major influences in the transition from blues to rock and roll. Nicknamed 'The Boss of the Blues', he recorded classics like 'Shake, Rattle and Roll'. His recordings in the 1950s brought blues music to mainstream audiences. Turner's dynamic stage presence made him a sought-after live performer. He inspired generations of rock and roll artists including Elvis Presley and Bill Haley. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987 for his contributions to popular music.

Rose to fame in the 1940s with hits like 'Till the End of Time' and 'Catch a Falling Star'. Hosted the long-running 'The Perry Como Show' on television for nearly two decades. His easygoing style and warm personality endeared him to millions of viewers. Sold millions of records and received multiple Grammy Awards including the Lifetime Achievement Award. Set records for live television attendance and was known as 'Mr. C' to fans. His influence on pop music and television variety shows remains enduring.

Established the House of Balmain in 1945 in Paris, quickly gaining international acclaim. Renowned for feminine silhouettes, opulent embroidery, and refined tailoring. Dressed royalty and Hollywood stars, including Katharine Hepburn and Ava Gardner. Expanded into ready-to-wear lines, perfumes, and accessories, building a fashion empire. His designs influenced post-war fashion and set standards for haute couture craftsmanship. Balmain's legacy continues under modern creative directors celebrating his signature style.

Trained in Sofia before debuting in Italy and gaining fame in the 1940s. Known for roles in operas by Verdi, Mussorgsky, and Mozart, including Boris Godunov. Praised for his deep timbre, dramatic intensity, and linguistic versatility. Performed at leading opera houses such as La Scala, the Met, and the Bolshoi. Recorded landmark albums that remain benchmarks for bass repertoire. Celebrated as one of the greatest basses of the 20th century.

Began career in the 1940s working for Timely Comics, the forerunner of Marvel. Created the Sub-Mariner in 1939, one of comics' first antiheroes and enduring characters. His dynamic artwork and storytelling helped shape the Golden Age of Comics. Worked on both writing and illustrating, influencing generations of comic artists. Later contributed to newspaper strips and editorial cartoons, showcasing his versatility. Everett's characters and style remain celebrated in comic book history.