July 23

Born in 1685 in Naples, he was the son of composer Alessandro Scarlatti and showed early musical promise. He served as music master to Princess Maria Barbara of Portugal and relocated to the Spanish court in Madrid. Scarlatti composed over five hundred keyboard sonatas celebrated for their inventive harmonies and technical demands. His works introduced Iberian dance rhythms and daring hand crossings to the Baroque keyboard repertoire. Although he wrote church and chamber music, his lasting fame rests on his sonatas' brilliance. He died in 1757, leaving a legacy that influenced keyboard technique for generations.

Viktor Vasnetsov was a foundational figure in Russian art, celebrated for his evocative depictions of Slavic folklore and epic history. He studied at the Imperial Academy of Arts in St. Petersburg and later helped establish the Abramtsevo Colony, a center for national artistic revival. His masterpieces include 'Bogatyrs', 'The Knight at the Crossroads', and 'Alyonushka', which blend realism with mythic themes. Vasnetsov's work influenced generations of artists and architects seeking a Russian national style. He also contributed to theater set design and church mosaics, leaving a lasting mark on visual culture.

Robert J. Flaherty pioneered the documentary film genre with groundbreaking works like Nanook of the North. Blending observation with narrative elements, he captured indigenous life in remote regions, bringing unseen worlds to audiences. Flaherty's film Moana and later Louisiana Story demonstrated his commitment to visual storytelling and authenticity. His work influenced generations of filmmakers and established documentary film as an important cinematic form. Flaherty's adventurous spirit led him to explore diverse cultures and landscapes, making him a celebrated figure in film history.

Keith Godchaux was an American pianist and songwriter renowned for his role in the Grateful Dead from 1971 to 1979. Joining the band alongside his wife Donna Jean, he enriched the group's sound with his elegant and fluid piano style. Godchaux contributed to seminal albums such as Europe '72 and Terrapin Station and co-wrote tracks that became live favorites. His improvisational skills and classical training added depth to the band's experimental performances. After leaving the group, he continued to record and perform in various rock and folk ensembles. Despite his untimely death in 1980, Godchaux's musical legacy remains influential among rock and jam band communities.

Georges Auric was a celebrated French composer and a founding member of the avant-garde group Les Six in the early 20th century. His compositions spanned orchestral works, ballets, and popular film scores that blended classical sensibilities with modernist flair. Auric's memorable music accompanied films such as Moulin Rouge (1952), The Man Who Knew Too Much (1934), and Roman Holiday (1953). In addition to his cinematic achievements, he served as director of the Opéra National de Paris and influenced generations of European composers. Honored with numerous awards, Auric's innovative orchestrations and distinctive melodies left a lasting mark on both concert halls and movie theaters.

Born in 1938, Clark Gesner developed a passion for music and writing early in life. He gained acclaim for composing the score and lyrics to the Off-Broadway musical 'You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown', which became a beloved classic. Throughout his career, he wrote songs, plays, and children's books, blending wit and melody. Gesner's work influenced American musical theatre and continues to charm audiences decades after its debut. He passed away in 2002 at the age of 63, leaving a legacy of joyful and enduring musical storytelling.

Born in 1925 in Coimbra, Carlos Paredes was the son of a renowned guitar maker and performer. He revolutionized the Portuguese guitar, blending traditional Fado with classical and modern influences. His signature piece, 'Verdes Anos', showcased his lyrical style and technical mastery. Paredes recorded numerous albums that brought Portuguese music to international audiences. His artistry remains a touchstone for guitarists and lovers of world music alike.

Born in 1921 in Turin, Piero Piccioni composed over 300 soundtracks for Italian and international films. He seamlessly merged jazz, classical, and popular music elements to create memorable cinematic themes. Piccioni collaborated with esteemed directors such as Vittorio De Sica and Elio Petri. His melodies captured the spirit of Italian cinema’s golden age. He passed away in 2004, leaving behind an extensive and influential body of work.

Born in 1946, Ted Greene became a revered figure in the jazz guitar community for his deep harmonic knowledge. He authored influential instructional books, including a comprehensive chord dictionary still used by guitarists worldwide. Greene’s teaching methods emphasized musicality, creativity, and technical command. He performed and recorded sessions for various artists, sharing his unique blend of jazz, blues, and classical styles. His legacy lives on through his writings and the countless musicians he inspired.

Born in 1933, Ron Miller became a key figure at Motown Records, contributing lyrics to classics such as 'For Once in My Life.' He collaborated with Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, and other legendary acts of the 1960s and 1970s. Miller’s emotive storytelling and melodic sensibilities defined the sound of soul music’s golden era. In addition to songwriting, he produced albums that showcased emerging talent. He passed away in 2007, leaving a legacy of timeless songs that continue to inspire.

Amy Winehouse rose to fame with her distinctive blend of jazz, soul, and R&B. Her album "Back to Black" earned six Grammy Awards and became a landmark in 21st-century music. Winehouse's candid songwriting delved into love, heartbreak, and personal struggles. She was celebrated for her retro style and powerful stage presence. Despite her immense talent, she battled addiction and mental health issues in the public eye. Her untimely death in 2011 at age 27 cemented her legacy as one of modern music's most iconic figures.

Born in 1941, Dominguinhos became a leading figure in Brazilian forró and MPB. He studied under legendary accordionist Luiz Gonzaga and mastered the instrument. His innovative compositions fused baião, xote, and samba to create a unique sound. Dominguinhos collaborated with major Brazilian artists across decades and earned multiple awards for his contributions to music. His legacy endures as one of the most influential musicians of his generation.