September 11

Born in Paris in 1668 into a renowned musical family, Couperin earned the nickname 'Le Grand' to distinguish him from his relatives. He was appointed organist at the Church of Saint-Gervais and later served at the royal court of Louis XIV. Couperin’s publications, including the four books of Pièces de clavecin, showcase his refined style blending French ornamentation with Italian influences. He also composed operas, sacred music, and chamber works that were admired across Europe. His treatise L'art de toucher le clavecin influenced keyboard technique for centuries. Couperin passed away in 1733, leaving an indelible mark on Baroque music.

Konstantin Korovin was born in 1861 in Moscow into a noble family. He studied at the Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture under the realist masters. Embracing Impressionism, Korovin became one of Russia's leading colorists with luminous landscapes inspired by Paris and Venice. He also designed sets for the Moscow Art Theatre and the Bolshoi Opera, blending visual art with theatre. After the 1917 Revolution, he emigrated to France in 1923 and continued his artistic work until his death in Paris in 1939. Korovin's fusion of painting and stage design bridged Russian and Western artistic traditions.

Henri Rabaud was born in Paris in 1873. He studied at the Paris Conservatory under Jules Massenet and won the prestigious Prix de Rome in 1897. Rabaud composed operas such as 'Mârouf, savetier du Caire' and crafted orchestral pieces noted for their elegance. He served as conductor at the Paris Opera and led the Orchestre de la Société des Concerts du Conservatoire. In 1941, he was appointed director of the Paris Conservatory, where he influenced generations of musicians. Rabaud's dual legacy as composer and educator cemented his place in French musical history. He died in 1949, remembered for his refined artistry and dedication to teaching.

Janet Parker was born in 1938 and worked as a medical photographer at the University of Birmingham Medical School. She specialized in clinical imaging, documenting various medical conditions for research and education. In August 1978, Parker contracted smallpox in a tragic laboratory accident, becoming the last known person to die of the disease. Her death on September 11 prompted an international review of virology safety protocols. The incident accelerated efforts to ensure secure containment of high-risk pathogens. Today, she is remembered both for her professional contributions and as a figure marking the end of smallpox fatalities. Parker's case remains a landmark in public health history.

Brian Lawrance was born in 1909 and formed the Brian Lawrance Orchestra, one of Australia's leading dance bands in the 1930s and 1940s. His smooth vocal style and charismatic leadership style made his orchestra a staple on radio broadcasts across the country. During World War II, Lawrance and his band toured extensively, performing for troops and boosting morale with swing and jazz standards. After the war, he continued to record and perform, adapting to evolving musical tastes and expanding his repertoire. Lawrance's contributions helped popularize big band music in Australia and influenced future generations of musicians. He remained active in the music industry until his death in 1983, leaving a lasting legacy in Australian popular culture.

William Alwyn was a prolific English composer, conductor, and educator. He composed scores for over 35 films, contributing significantly to British cinema. In addition to his film work, he wrote seven symphonies, concertos, and chamber pieces that expanded the orchestral repertoire. As a professor at the Royal Academy of Music, he influenced generations of composers and musicians through his teaching and writings on music theory. His works continue to be performed by orchestras around the world, and his scholarly publications remain authoritative references in film music studies.

Peter Tosh was a foundational figure in reggae music and co-founder of the influential group The Wailers alongside Bob Marley and Bunny Wailer. Born Winston Hubert McIntosh, he was known for his militant lyrics, advocating for Rastafari beliefs, social justice, and the legalization of marijuana. Tosh's solo albums, including Legalize It and Equal Rights, became anthems for oppressed communities worldwide. He toured extensively, using his platform to address political and human rights issues. His uncompromising stance often brought him into conflict with authorities, solidifying his reputation as a revolutionary artist. Tosh's impact continues to resonate through generations of musicians and activists.

Erich Leinsdorf (1912-1993) was born in Vienna and studied under Bruno Walter before emigrating to the United States in 1934. He served as music director of the Rochester Philharmonic and the Cleveland Orchestra, earning acclaim for his clarity and energy. From 1950 to 1976, Leinsdorf was a prominent conductor at the Metropolitan Opera, championing works by Mahler and Strauss. A dedicated educator, he taught at the Juilliard School and influenced countless musicians. His extensive recordings remain valued for their authoritative musicianship and stylistic insight.

Born in Bologna, Sgrizzi studied piano and composition at the local conservatory before dedicating himself to the harpsichord. He gained international renown for his interpretations of Bach and Scarlatti, recording acclaimed albums for RCA. In addition to performance, he composed works that blended modern and Baroque elements, influencing the early music revival. Sgrizzi's scholarly editions and radio broadcasts for Italian networks expanded public appreciation of historical performance practice. He remained active as a performer and educator until his death in 1994, leaving a rich musical legacy.

Belkis Ayón (1967–1999) was a pioneering Cuban artist and printmaker who developed a distinctive collograph technique. Her large-scale prints delved into Abakuá society and Afro-Cuban religious symbolism in a haunting monochromatic palette. Through her seminal 'La Historia' series, Ayón critically examined themes of power, identity, and gender. Her groundbreaking approach earned international acclaim, with her work exhibited in galleries across the Americas and Europe. Despite her untimely death at age 32, Ayón's influence endures as a milestone in contemporary Cuban art.

Fred Ebb (1928–2004) was an American songwriter celebrated for his partnership with composer John Kander. Together, they crafted some of Broadway's most enduring shows, including 'Cabaret,' 'Chicago,' and 'Kiss of the Spider Woman.' Ebb's sharp, witty lyrics captured complex characters and social commentary, earning multiple Tony Awards. He also contributed songs to film and television, such as the title track for 'New York, New York.' His work remains a cornerstone of musical theater and continues to be performed worldwide.

David Mann (1939–2004) was an American painter and illustrator renowned for his vibrant depictions of cars and motorcycles. Born in Shreveport, Louisiana, he developed a passion for automotive art early in life. His work appeared on magazine covers, posters, and in publications such as Easyriders. Mann's dynamic compositions and attention to detail helped define the visual language of hot rod and custom bike culture. His legacy continues to influence artists and enthusiasts around the world.