September 16

Born in 1836 in Campinas, Gomes studied at the Imperial Academy of Music in Rio de Janeiro. He won a scholarship to the Milan Conservatory, where he composed his breakthrough opera 'Il Guarany'. Premiered at La Scala in 1870, the work celebrated an indigenous Brazilian love story and earned him European fame. Gomes continued to write operas and choral works that reflected his national heritage and Romantic sensibilities. He became the first New World composer to be celebrated on major European stages, inspiring future generations in Brazil.

Born in 1873 in Olomouc, Fall studied at the Vienna Conservatory and quickly rose to prominence in the world of operetta. His works, including "The Dollar Princess," "Madame Pompadour," and "Der fidele Bauer," blended Viennese waltz traditions with modern theatrical flair. Enjoying success across Europe and America, his melodies became staples of the Silver Age of operetta. Fall's compositions influenced contemporaries and continue to be performed. He passed away in 1925, leaving a rich legacy of musical theater.

John McCormack was an Irish tenor whose lyrical voice and charismatic stage presence captivated audiences worldwide in the early 20th century. He made his operatic debut in Dublin before achieving fame at London's Covent Garden and New York’s Metropolitan Opera. McCormack recorded extensively, popularizing Italian arias and Irish folk songs and earning the nickname “the greatest tenor of his time.” He also appeared in films and Broadway productions, showcasing his acting talents. A dedicated philanthropist, he raised funds for World War I relief efforts. McCormack’s recordings remain benchmarks for vocal excellence and continue to inspire singers today.

Ahn Eak-tai was a Korean composer and conductor celebrated as the author of 'Aegukga,' the national anthem of South Korea. Born in 1906, he studied music in Japan, Germany, and France, mastering piano, composition, and orchestral conducting. Ahn debuted with the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra before performing with major European ensembles. His compositions blended Western classical forms with Korean folk melodies, fostering national identity during colonial rule. After Korea’s liberation, his anthem became a symbol of unity and pride. Ahn spent his later years in the United States, teaching and conducting community orchestras. He died in 1965, leaving a lasting legacy in modern Korean music history.

Fred Quimby (1886–1965) was an American film producer and animator who supervised the MGM cartoon studio's Tom & Jerry series. He began his career in journalism before moving into animation production at MGM in the 1920s. Under his leadership, the Tom & Jerry shorts earned seven Academy Award nominations and won two Oscars. Though he rarely animated himself, his management and promotion of talent such as William Hanna and Joseph Barbera shaped the golden age of American animation. Quimby retired in 1955 and left a lasting legacy as one of the key figures behind one of the most beloved cartoon duos in history.

Víctor Jara (1932–1973) was a Chilean teacher, theatre director, and folk musician whose poetic songs became anthems of social justice. As the artistic director of the Chilean National Folklore Ensemble, he revitalized traditional music and brought political themes to the stage. His best-known works include 'Te Recuerdo Amanda' and 'El derecho de vivir en paz.' After the military coup led by General Augusto Pinochet, Jara was arrested, tortured, and executed, becoming a symbol of resistance against dictatorship. His life and music have inspired generations worldwide, and his story remains a poignant reminder of the power of art in political struggle.

Marc Bolan (1947–1977), born Mark Feld, was the charismatic leader of the British rock band T. Rex, whose music defined the glam rock movement. With hits like 'Get It On' and 'Children of the Revolution,' Bolan combined catchy riffs with flamboyant style. He began his career in the folk duo Tyrannosaurus Rex before shifting to electric guitars and a more commercial sound. Bolan's influence extended beyond music to fashion and popular culture. His life was cut short at the age of 29 in a car accident, but his legacy endures through his enduring recordings and status as a rock icon.

Maria Callas (1923–1977) was one of the most influential opera singers of the 20th century, known for her rich voice and dramatic interpretations. Born in New York and raised in Greece, she studied under Elvira de Hidalgo in Athens and later debuted at La Scala in Milan. Callas became famous for her portrayals of complex roles in operas such as 'Norma,' 'Tosca,' and 'La Traviata.' Her technical skill and emotional depth earned her the nickname 'La Divina.' She navigated a tumultuous personal life, including a noted romance with Aristotle Onassis, which added to her public mystique. Callas retired from the stage in the late 1960s and died in Paris, leaving a timeless legacy in the world of opera.

Louis Réard (1897–1984) was a French engineer-turned-fashion designer who revolutionized swimwear in 1946. While managing his mother's lingerie boutique, he conceived the minimalist two-piece swimsuit and named it the 'bikini' after the recent nuclear tests at Bikini Atoll. Réard debuted the design at Paris's Piscine Molitor, where model Micheline Bernardini caused a sensation by wearing it publicly. Initially controversial and banned in several countries, the bikini eventually became a symbol of liberation and modernity. Réard continued to promote his creation through fashion shows and marketing, cementing its place in popular culture. His invention remains a staple of beach fashion decades after its introduction.

Born in 1913 in Brno, František Jílek studied at the Prague Conservatory under Václav Talich. He served as the principal conductor of the Janáček Opera in Brno, elevating its international reputation. Renowned for his authoritative interpretations of Janáček, Smetana, and Dvořák, he championed Czech music worldwide. Jílek guest-conducted major orchestras across Europe and North America, earning critical acclaim. He remained a defining figure in Czech musical life until his death in 1993.

Born in 1921 in Texas, Wooley served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He scored a chart-topping novelty hit with The Purple People Eater in 1958. Beyond music, he appeared in Western films such as High Noon and TV shows. Wooley wrote under multiple pseudonyms and contributed extensively to country music. He passed away in 2003, leaving a diverse artistic legacy.

Born in 1922 in Toronto, Freedman studied at The Royal Conservatory of Music. He served as principal horn in major Canadian orchestras and composed over 200 works. His music blended classical, jazz, and contemporary techniques with rhythmic vitality. As a professor at the University of Toronto, he mentored generations of musicians. Freedman's contributions earned him multiple Juno Awards before his death in 2005.