August 25

George Stubbs was an 18th-century English painter renowned for his detailed studies of animal anatomy. He conducted pioneering research on horse musculature, publishing 'The Anatomy of the Horse' in 1766. His masterpiece 'Whistlejacket' remains an iconic image of equine beauty and power. Stubbs exhibited regularly at the Royal Academy and influenced generations of animal painters. His blend of scientific observation and artistic skill set him apart in the history of British art.

Franz Teyber was an Austrian musician active in the late 18th century, celebrated for his skill as an organist and composer. He held positions in Vienna, composing masses, keyboard works, and chamber music that bridged Baroque traditions and early Classicism. Teyber collaborated with vocalists in court and church settings, enhancing liturgical music with expressive melodies. His surviving works reveal a melodic inventiveness and clarity of form. Though less widely known today, his contributions enriched the Viennese musical scene of his era.

Carlo Acton was born in Naples in 1829 into a family of musicians. He studied piano and composition at the conservatory, developing a refined Romantic style. Acton composed numerous salon pieces, chamber works, and songs that were popular in European salons. He performed across Italy and gained recognition for his lyrical melodies and elegant technique. Although less remembered today, his music reflects the charm and intimacy of 19th-century Italian Romanticism.

Details of Beattie's early life and education are scarce. She emerged in the 1920s as one of the few female professional architects in Scotland. Her designs blended traditional Scottish elements with emerging modernist influences. She contributed to several residential and civic projects before World War II. Her work helped pave the way for future generations of women in architecture. Despite limited documentation, her legacy endures in the buildings she designed.

Born in Berlin, Wolpe studied with composers of the Second Viennese School. He fled Nazi Germany in 1933, living in Palestine before settling in the United States in 1938. His compositions blended jazz, serialism, and Middle Eastern influences, pioneering new musical languages. He taught at institutions like the New School and Black Mountain College, mentoring future composers. His writings on music theory and pedagogy influenced generations of musicians. Wolpe's works have been performed worldwide and remain significant in 20th-century music.

Born in Galesburg, Illinois, in 1910, Tanning studied at the Art Students League in New York. She emerged in the late 1930s alongside fellow surrealists and held her first solo exhibition in 1938. In 1946, she married German artist Max Ernst and became deeply involved in the European avant-garde scene. While best known for her dreamlike paintings and sculptural works, she also published several volumes of poetry exploring similar themes. Over a career spanning seven decades, she experimented with a variety of styles and media. Tanning’s work has been celebrated in numerous retrospectives and continues to influence contemporary art.

Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1913, Kelly got his start as an animator at Walt Disney Studios. He gained fame in 1948 with the launch of 'Pogo', a comic strip set in the Okefenokee Swamp featuring anthropomorphic animals. The strip became celebrated for its witty political satire, whimsical characters, and memorable catchphrases like 'We have met the enemy and he is us.' Kelly published numerous collections of his cartoons and won awards for his innovative storytelling. His work influenced generations of cartoonists and remains a touchstone of American pop culture. Kelly’s insightful humor and artistic skill ensured his legacy long after his death in 1973.

Born in Lawrence, Massachusetts, in 1918, Bernstein studied at Harvard University and the Curtis Institute of Music. He made a historic debut conducting the New York Philharmonic in 1943, becoming the orchestra’s first American-born music director. Bernstein composed across multiple genres, from symphonies and chamber works to film scores and the iconic musical 'West Side Story' (1957). He was a passionate educator, hosting televised 'Young People’s Concerts' to introduce classical music to a wide audience. Bernstein was known for championing contemporary composers and using his platform to advocate for social causes. His dynamic performances and compositions left an indelible mark on 20th-century music.

William P. Foster was the founding director of the Florida A&M University Marching 100. Under his leadership, the band gained national recognition for its innovative style and precision. He introduced modern marching techniques and showmanship to collegiate bands. Foster served as an educator and mentor, training generations of musicians and band directors. He authored influential publications on band leadership and arrangement. His legacy endures in marching band programs across the United States.

Born in 1928 in the United States, Karl Korte became a leading composer of contemporary classical music. He studied at the Eastman School of Music and received a Fulbright Scholarship to study in Europe. Korte's compositions ranged from orchestral works to chamber music and choral pieces. He held academic posts at various universities, mentoring generations of composers. His music was noted for its lyrical quality and exploration of modern techniques. Korte received awards from the National Endowment for the Arts and other organizations. He continued composing and teaching until his death in 2022, leaving a rich musical legacy.

Wayne Shorter was an influential American jazz saxophonist and composer whose career spanned over six decades. Born in 1933 in Newark, New Jersey, he gained prominence with Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers before joining Miles Davis's Second Great Quintet. In 1970, he co-founded the groundbreaking fusion band Weather Report, penning classics like 'Black Market.' Shorter's compositions such as 'Footprints,' 'Nefertiti,' and 'Speak No Evil' became jazz standards. He won multiple Grammy Awards and was named a NEA Jazz Master for his contributions to music. Known for his adventurous harmonies and evocative improvisations, he inspired generations of musicians worldwide. He passed away in 2023.

Jimmy Hannan (1937–2019) was an Australian entertainer known for his work on television and in music. He began his career as a singer, releasing popular singles in the 1960s. Hannan became a household name as the charismatic host of shows like "Saturday Date". He won a Gold Logie Award for his contributions to Australian television. His upbeat style and musical talent made him a beloved figure on screen and stage. Hannan also mentored emerging artists and remained active in the entertainment industry for decades.