September 05

Born in Rome in 1585, Domenico Allegri joined the papal choir as a tenor and quickly gained a reputation for his expressive compositions. He was a member of the influential Allegri musical family and contributed to the early Baroque style with motets that blended polyphony and emerging monodic techniques. His works were performed at St. Peter's Basilica and other Roman churches, earning him recognition among his contemporaries. Although few manuscripts survive, his music influenced the development of church music in the 17th century. He remained active until his death in 1629, leaving a legacy as a bridge between Renaissance polyphony and Baroque expression.

Nicolas Bernier was born in Mantes in 1664 and studied music in the vibrant Parisian scene at the turn of the 18th century. He served as maître de musique at Notre-Dame and later at the Chapelle Royale for King Louis XIV, composing grand motets that showcased dramatic contrasts and Italianate style. Bernier also wrote cantatas in both French and Italian, expanding the genre beyond its origins. His published collections influenced composers in France and abroad, blending refined elegance with emotional depth. He retired to a peaceful life in Meudon, where he continued to compose until his death in 1734, leaving a rich body of sacred and secular music.

François Devienne was born in Joinville in 1759 and joined the French royal orchestra as a flautist. He served in the La Sarre infantry regiment band during the Revolutionary Wars, composing concertos and chamber works that showcased the flute's expressive potential. As a founding professor at the Paris Conservatory in 1795, he codified flute technique in his influential method book. Devienne published numerous symphonies, quartets and sonatas, earning him the nickname 'French Mozart'. His works helped standardize Classical forms in France and his educational materials continued to shape flute teaching long after his death in 1803.

Charles Percier was born in Paris in 1764 and studied at the Académie Royale before winning the Prix de Rome in 1789. Partnering with Pierre Fontaine, he developed the neoclassical Empire style, which became the visual language of Napoleon's reign. The duo designed interiors, furniture and public buildings, including the Palais du Louvre and Château de Malmaison. Percier published influential pattern books that spread Empire aesthetics across Europe. His work blended classical motifs with bold, modern forms, shaping the decorative arts for generations. He died in 1838, remembered as a master of architectural harmony and elegance.

Born in 1867 in Bonneval, France, Georgette Agutte studied at the École des Beaux-Arts and emerged as a key figure in early 20th-century French art. Her bold use of color and expressive brushwork aligned with the Fauvist aesthetic, and she exhibited alongside leading artists of the time. Agutte's work often explored rural scenes and still lifes, capturing the essence of her subjects with emotional depth. Despite facing challenges as a female artist in a male-dominated field, she gained recognition for her unique style and artistic vision. She was also involved in the cultural salons of Paris, influencing fellow painters and critics. Agutte's career was tragically cut short when she died in 1922, but her paintings continue to be celebrated in museums and private collections.

Born in 1889 in Wandsbek, Germany, Paul Bern emigrated to the United States and became a key creative force at Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer during the silent and early sound eras. He produced and directed numerous films, collaborating with prominent actors and writers of the time, and was known for his meticulous storytelling and technical expertise. In 1932, Bern married rising star Jean Harlow, one of Hollywood's most glamorous actresses, forming one of the industry's most talked-about couples. His life ended tragically later that year under mysterious circumstances, sparking widespread media attention and speculation. Bern's contributions to film production and narrative development left a lasting mark on Hollywood's golden age, influencing generations of filmmakers.

Don Banks was born in 1923 in Brighton, Victoria, and studied composition under Dallapiccola in Rome. His prolific output spanned orchestral, chamber, solo, choral, and electronic works, including scores for Australian films and theatre. Appointed as a lecturer at the University of Melbourne and later at the University of Western Australia, he established one of the country’s first electronic music studios. Banks mentored a generation of Australian composers, championing innovative techniques and interdisciplinary approaches. His legacy endures in Australia’s contemporary classical scene and in institutions that continue to promote electronic and experimental music.

Gert Fröbe began his career in post-war Germany and rose to international fame with his iconic role as Auric Goldfinger in the 1964 James Bond film. He was celebrated for his commanding screen presence and ability to convey both charm and menace. In addition to acting, Fröbe showcased a warm singing voice in several musical roles on stage and in film. He appeared in a wide range of genres, from dramas to comedies, demonstrating remarkable versatility. Throughout his career, he received numerous awards in Germany and remains a cultural icon for his indelible contributions to cinema.

Jerry Iger began his career drawing comic strips during the early days of the medium. In 1936, he partnered with Will Eisner to create Eisner & Iger, one of the first comic book packaging studios supplying material to publishers. Their studio launched the careers of many legendary artists and contributed to the Golden Age of Comics. Iger's keen editorial vision and business acumen helped professionalize the industry and expand its creative reach. He later founded the Novelty Press and continued to shape comic book publishing practices. His legacy is seen in the enduring popularity of characters and storytelling techniques his studio developed.

Claude Renoir, grandson of the painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir, brought a painterly eye to the art of cinematography. He worked on landmark films by directors such as Jean Renoir, Alfred Hitchcock, and Michael Powell. Renoir’s use of color and composition created immersive atmospheres and enhanced narrative depth on screen. His work on films like 'The River' earned critical acclaim and influenced the evolution of visual storytelling. Throughout his career, he collaborated across European and Hollywood productions, leaving an enduring imprint on cinema. Renoir’s legacy lives on in the generations of cinematographers inspired by his artistry.

Born in 1939 in Jakarta, Benyamin Sueb emerged as a pioneering figure in Indonesian comedy, blending local Betawi humor with musical talent. He rose to fame in the 1960s through stage performances and popular films, creating iconic characters loved by audiences nationwide. As a singer, he released numerous hit songs that celebrated Jakarta's urban culture. He also ventured into film production, showcasing his versatility and entrepreneurial spirit. Throughout his career, he won several awards for acting and music. His work had a lasting impact on Indonesian pop culture, inspiring generations of artists. He passed away on September 5, 1995, leaving behind a rich legacy as one of Indonesia's most influential entertainers.

Born in 1922 in Bhagalpur, Salil Chowdhury began composing at a young age and gained acclaim for his innovative musical arrangements. He studied Western classical music and seamlessly integrated it with Bengali folk traditions to create a unique sound. Over his career, he composed music for more than 60 films in Bengali, Hindi, Malayalam, and other regional languages. His songs often carried social and political themes, reflecting his commitment to progressive ideals. He also wrote poems, short stories, and plays, showcasing his versatility as an artist. Classics like Sab Kuch Seekha remain popular decades later. He passed away on September 5, 1995, leaving a remarkable legacy in Indian cinema and music.