September 06

Sebastiano Serlio was born around 1475 and became one of the leading architects of the Italian Mannerist movement. He served as court architect for the Farnese family and traveled extensively, absorbing classical Roman design principles. His magnum opus, "I Sette Libri dell'Architettura", offered groundbreaking insights into classical orders, geometry, and perspective. Serlio's work helped spread Renaissance architectural ideas across Europe, influencing generations of builders and theorists. He died in 1554, but his treatises remained standard references for centuries.

Isabella Leonarda was born in 1620 and entered the Collegiate Church of Sant'Orsola in Novara as a canoness. Over her lifetime, she composed more than 200 works, including motets, sonatas, and instrumental pieces, making her one of the most prolific female composers of her era. Her Opus 16 (1683) was the first published collection by a woman in Italy. Leonarda balanced her musical career with teaching duties, mentoring young musicians. She died in 1704, and her manuscripts remain valuable sources of early Baroque sacred music.

Sebastian Knüpfer was born in 1633 and became cantor at the Paulinerkirche in Leipzig at a young age. He was appointed Thomaskantor in 1657, leading the music program at St. Thomas Church for nearly two decades. Knüpfer composed motets, choral works, and instrumental pieces that blended intricate counterpoint with Baroque expressiveness. He educated choirboys and influenced the city's musical life, laying foundations later built on by Johann Sebastian Bach. Knüpfer died in 1676, leaving a legacy of rich sacred music manuscripts.

Vincent Novello was an English musician and publisher who founded the influential music firm Novello & Co in 1811. He championed the revival of early choral and organ music, publishing works by Palestrina, Byrd, and other Renaissance masters. As a composer, he wrote numerous sacred works, including hymn tunes and masses that remain in church repertoires. Novello's publishing house became a cornerstone of British music, supporting composers and distributing important scores. He was instrumental in popularizing classical music in 19th-century England and nurturing young talent. His legacy endures through Novello & Co, which continues to publish and promote choral music worldwide.

Born in 1855, Ferdinand Hummel studied at the Leipzig Conservatory and became a celebrated pianist and composer. He created operas, chamber works, and orchestral pieces that reflected the lush harmonies of the late Romantic era. Hummel also served as a conductor at several German musical institutions. His compositions were admired for their lyrical melodies and masterful orchestration. He died in 1928, leaving a lasting imprint on German classical music.

Born in 1863, Jessie Willcox Smith studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and became a leading illustrator. She created iconic images for magazines like Ladies' Home Journal and illustrated beloved children’s books. Smith's work captured warmth and intimacy, making her one of the most sought-after artists of the Golden Age of Illustration. She later taught at the Philadelphia School of Design for Women, mentoring future generations of artists. She died in 1935, leaving a legacy of timeless visual storytelling.

Sir Henry Walford Davies was an influential English organist, composer, and educator born in 1869. He served as Master of the King’s Music and composed memorable works including "Solemn Melody" and settings of sacred texts. Davies played a key role in British musical life, broadcasting on the BBC and promoting music education. His compositions span choral, orchestral, and educational works that remain in the repertoire. He was knighted in recognition of his services to music before his death in 1941.

Louis Silvers was an American composer born in 1889 who became a leading figure in film music during the silent and early sound eras. He scored the first all-talking motion picture, "The Jazz Singer" (1927), and won an Academy Award for his work on "The Informer" (1935). Silvers collaborated with major studios and helped define the role of music in enhancing cinematic storytelling. Beyond film, he composed concert works and arranged pieces for radio broadcasts. His innovations set standards for future generations of film composers. Silvers died in 1954, leaving a lasting impact on Hollywood music.

Billy Rose was an American composer, theatrical producer, and lyricist who left a lasting mark on Broadway and popular music. He co-wrote hit songs like "Me and My Shadow" and produced blockbuster revues such as "Jumbo" and "Carmen Jones". Known for his lavish parties and high-profile social scene, he became one of the most celebrated impresarios of his time. Rose's entrepreneurial spirit extended to nightclub ownership and investments in live entertainment. He received a Tony Award for his contributions to musical theater. His life embodied the glamour and ambition of early 20th-century show business.

Korczak Ziółkowski was an American sculptor best known for designing and initiating construction of the Crazy Horse Memorial in South Dakota. Commissioned to honor the Oglala Lakota warrior Crazy Horse, he spent decades carving the massive mountain sculpture by hand. Ziółkowski refused government funding, relying on private donations and his own perseverance. His vision transformed a remote Black Hills ridge into one of the most ambitious outdoor art projects in history. After his death, his family continued his work according to his original plans. The Crazy Horse Memorial remains a testament to his artistic ambition and cultural respect.

Wayne Barlow was born in 1912 and studied at Eastman School of Music. He served as the first University Organist and Professor of Composition at the University of Michigan. Barlow composed over 100 works, including organ symphonies, choral pieces, and chamber music. His compositions were praised for their innovative use of modern tonality and textural clarity. As an educator, he mentored generations of composers and performers. He also served as director of the School of Music, shaping curriculum and expanding programs. He died in 1996, leaving a legacy as a leading figure in American music academia.

Julie Gibson was born in 1913 in Hollywood, California, and began her career on radio. She transitioned to film in the 1940s, appearing in musicals and comedies for major studios. Gibson showcased her vocal talents in films, delivering memorable musical performances. On stage, she starred in vaudeville revues and touring theater productions. Beyond performance, she contributed to USO shows, entertaining troops during World War II. In later years, she taught acting and voice, sharing her experience with aspiring artists. She passed away in 2019 at the age of 106, celebrated for her longevity and showmanship.