September 11

William Boyce was born in London in 1711 and served as a chorister at the Chapel Royal under Maurice Greene. He succeeded Greene as Master of the King’s Music in 1755, composing anthems, odes, and theatrical works for the royal court. Boyce’s six volumes of 'Cathedral Music' cataloged and revived the works of earlier English composers, cementing his legacy as a preserver of national music. He also published a collection of orchestral symphonies and chamber pieces that showcased his mastery of Baroque and early Classical styles. His organ voluntaries remain part of the Anglican church repertoire. Boyce continued to compose and oversee court music until his death in 1779.

Valentino Fioravanti was born in Naples in 1764 and trained as an organist before turning to composition. He became a leading figure in Neapolitan opera buffa, writing over fifty comic operas, including the enduring 'Le cantatrici villane'. Fioravanti’s works were praised for their catchy melodies, lively ensembles, and witty libretti. He taught music at the San Carlo Theatre and influenced a generation of early Romantic composers. His operas bridged the Classical style and the emerging Romantic sensibility in Italian theater. After moving to Rome later in life, he continued composing until his death in 1837, solidifying his reputation as a master of comic opera.

Friedrich Kuhlau was born in 1786 in Germany and later settled in Denmark, where he became a celebrated composer and pianist. He wrote over 200 works, including sonatas, concertos, and chamber pieces, with a special focus on the flute trio genre. His lyrical melodies and classical style earned him widespread acclaim among musicians of his era. Kuhlau also composed operas and vocal works that enjoyed success on the Danish stage in the early 19th century. Despite chronic health issues, he maintained a prolific output and helped shape Danish musical life until his death in 1832.

Thomas Hill was born in 1829 in England but grew up and practiced in California, becoming a prominent landscape painter. He is best known for his grand depictions of Yosemite Valley, Mount Hood, and other western landscapes, capturing the sublime beauty of nature in the late 19th century. Hill traveled extensively across the American West, sketches made during geological surveys inspiring his monumental canvas works. His painting The Last Spike commemorating the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad became an iconic image of American expansion. Hill also taught art and exhibited widely, influencing a generation of landscape artists before his death in 1908.

A native of Milwaukee, Stothart studied music in Europe before joining MGM studios in Hollywood. Over his career, he composed and conducted scores for more than 100 films, blending classical orchestration with emerging cinematic techniques. His most famous work, the lush score for The Wizard of Oz (1939), earned him an Oscar for Best Original Score. Stothart collaborated with leading directors and composers, helping to define the Golden Age of Hollywood musicals. His musical legacy continues to influence film composers today.

Born in rural Louisiana, Davis combined his love of music with a career in public service. He achieved national fame as a country artist with hits like 'You Are My Sunshine' before entering politics. Davis served as Louisiana's governor from 1944 to 1948 and again from 1960 to 1964, advocating for infrastructure improvements and education reforms. He maintained his musical career throughout his political life, performing at events and recording albums. Davis's dual legacy as a musician and statesman has left a lasting impact on both American music and Southern politics.

Stephen Etnier began his career as a lieutenant before turning to painting full-time. He became known for his luminous depictions of seascapes and coastal scenes. Etnier's work captured the interplay of light and shadow with a distinctive style. His paintings were exhibited in galleries across the United States. He continued painting until his death in 1984, leaving a lasting impact on American landscape art.

Lev Oborin was a celebrated Russian pianist who rose to fame after winning prestigious international competitions. He performed with major orchestras around the world, earning acclaim for his interpretations of classical and Romantic repertoire. Oborin served on the faculty of the Moscow Conservatory, where he mentored countless young pianists. His recordings remain influential in the classical music community. Oborin continued to teach and perform until his death in 1974.

Bola de Nieve, born Ignacio Villa, was a Cuban singer, songwriter, and pianist celebrated for his emotive delivery and musical versatility. He toured internationally, captivating audiences with his unique fusion of jazz, bolero, and Afro-Cuban styles. Villa collaborated with top artists of his era and influenced Latin music for decades. His theatrical stage presence and expressive voice left a lasting legacy. Bola de Nieve's recordings continue to be celebrated for their artistry and innovation.

Ed Sabol was an American film producer and the visionary co-founder of NFL Films. In 1964, he partnered with his son Steve to create a company that transformed sports broadcasting. Through innovative cinematography and storytelling, Sabol introduced dramatic slow motion and behind-the-scenes features. His work earned multiple Emmy Awards and reshaped how fans experience professional football on television. Sabol’s legacy endures in the cinematic style that remains central to NFL media production.

Vasilije Mokranjac studied composition at the Belgrade Music Academy under Stanojlo Rajičić and later joined its faculty. He composed symphonic suites, concertos, and chamber music that became staples of Serbian concert repertoire. Mokranjac also wrote music for film and theater, showcasing his versatility. As a professor, he mentored a generation of Yugoslav composers. His works are characterized by a deep connection to national heritage and innovative harmonic language.

Harry Somers served in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II before studying composition at the Toronto Conservatory of Music. He went on to become a leading figure in Canadian music, blending avant-garde techniques with lyrical expression. Somers composed operas, orchestral pieces, chamber works, and choral music, including the celebrated opera "Louis Riel." He co-founded the Canadian Music Centre and influenced generations of composers through both his creations and his leadership roles.