September 21

Alexander Koshetz was born in 1875 in Kozlyatyn, Ukraine, and studied musicology in Kyiv. He co-founded the Ukrainian National Chorus in 1919, arranging and conducting performances that introduced Ukrainian folk songs to international audiences. A prolific arranger and composer, Koshetz published collections of liturgical and folk music, ensuring their preservation. After emigrating in the 1920s due to Soviet repression, he toured extensively in Europe and North America, winning acclaim for his vibrant choral interpretations. His legacy lives on through institutions like the Koshetz Choir and ongoing performances of his arrangements.

Bo Carter, born Armenter Chatmon in 1892, was a key figure in Delta blues music. He recorded numerous tracks between 1928 and 1938, often featuring playful and risqué lyrics. Carter's smooth guitar accompaniment and relaxed vocal style influenced many later blues artists. He played with the Mississippi Sheiks, achieving widespread popularity in the 1930s. His song 'Corrine, Corrina' became a blues standard covered by diverse musicians. He passed away in 1962, leaving a lasting impact on American roots music.

Bedri Rahmi Eyüboğlu (1911-1975) was a leading figure in modern Turkish art, blending traditional Anatolian motifs with contemporary styles. Trained at the Academy of Fine Arts in Istanbul, he experimented with mosaics, murals, and ceramics that showcased his love for folk culture. His murals adorn public buildings and schools across Turkey, vibrant with color and folkloric patterns. Eyüboğlu was also an accomplished poet, publishing collections that evoke rural life and personal introspection. He taught at the State Academy of Fine Arts, mentoring a generation of Turkish artists. Collaborating with his wife, painter Eren Eyüboğlu, he organized exhibitions that transformed Turkish visual arts. His work remains influential for its synthesis of heritage and modernism. Eyüboğlu's legacy endures in both galleries and public spaces, where his art continues to inspire.

Born in 1951, Jaco Pastorius transformed the role of the electric bass in jazz fusion and popular music. He gained fame as a member of Weather Report, showcasing his lyrical melodies and chording techniques. Pastorius pioneered the use of the fretless bass, creating a singing tone that redefined the instrument's possibilities. His solo debut album featured classics such as 'Portrait of Tracy' and 'Continuum.' A prolific composer, he blended elements of funk, jazz, and classical music in his arrangements. Despite a turbulent personal life, his innovative style has influenced generations of bass players. Pastorius's legacy endures through countless tributes, recordings, and the ongoing popularity of his groundbreaking techniques.

Born in Hitchin, England in 1946, John Du Cann emerged on the music scene in the mid-1960s. He co-founded the progressive rock band Andromeda in 1966, showcasing his technical guitar skills. Du Cann joined Atomic Rooster in 1970, co-writing tracks and performing on their hit singles. After leaving Atomic Rooster, he pursued a solo career, releasing hard rock albums that highlighted his songwriting. He collaborated with artists such as Vincent Crane and Chris Farlowe, influencing the British rock movement. Du Cann's fiery playing style and distinct tone left a mark on 1970s rock guitarists. He passed away in 2011, remembered for his raw energy and melodic sensibility.

Born in Havana in 1917, José Curbelo moved to New York City in the early 1940s, immersing himself in the Latin music scene. He formed his own orchestra, blending Cuban rhythms with jazz harmonies to create a dynamic Afro-Cuban jazz sound. Curbelo's band recorded hits such as "Besos de Fuego" and helped popularize mambo and cha-cha-cha. Beyond performing, he managed prominent Latin musicians and shaped the development of Latin jazz in the U.S. His work as a pianist and arranger influenced the golden era of Latin music in New York's nightclubs. Curbelo's career spanned over six decades, leaving a lasting legacy in world music.

Michel Brault (1928–2013) was a celebrated Canadian director, producer, and screenwriter. He championed cinéma vérité techniques, bringing a naturalistic aesthetic to documentary filmmaking. His collaborations with the National Film Board of Canada influenced generations of filmmakers. Brault's experimental camera work and narrative approach reshaped the documentary genre. He earned national and international awards for his innovative contributions. Throughout his career, he mentored emerging talents and taught at renowned film institutions. His legacy endures in the visual language of modern documentary cinema.

Yoram Gross (1926–2015) was a pioneering Polish-Australian director and producer celebrated for his imaginative storytelling. He founded a production company that specialized in family-oriented animated and live-action films. Gross's most beloved works blended creative animation techniques with engaging narratives that resonated with audiences worldwide. Over his career, he navigated different cultural landscapes, adapting his style to appeal to diverse markets. He received numerous awards for his contributions to children's entertainment and animation innovation. Gross also mentored emerging filmmakers, sharing his expertise in production and storytelling. His influence is evident in the continued popularity of his films and the success of those he guided.

Ray Warleigh (1938–2015) was an accomplished saxophonist and flute player whose elegant style enriched jazz and popular music. Born in Australia and based in England, he collaborated with leading artists across genres, from jazz ensembles to rock bands. Warleigh's expressive technique and improvisational flair made him a sought-after session musician. He recorded memorable solos on numerous landmark albums and performed at major festivals worldwide. As a performer, he captivated audiences with his melodic sensitivity and dynamic range. Warleigh also composed and arranged music, showcasing his deep understanding of harmony and rhythm. His legacy lives on through his recordings and the musicians he inspired.

Benny Golson (1929–2024) was a leading figure in the hard bop jazz movement. He composed enduring tunes such as "Killer Joe", "I Remember Clifford", and "Whisper Not". Golson co-founded The Jazztet with Art Farmer and played alongside jazz greats like Art Blakey and Dizzy Gillespie. His arrangements and compositions have become staples of the jazz repertoire. Later in his career, he led orchestras, taught at universities, and appeared on television to share his musical expertise. Golson's melodic sensibility and innovative spirit influenced generations of jazz musicians.

Eddie Low (1943–2024) overcame blindness from infancy to become a celebrated country artist in New Zealand. He gained recognition through television appearances and live performances, showcasing his powerful baritone. Low recorded several albums and collaborated with local and international musicians. He received multiple awards for his contributions to the music industry. Committed to nurturing young talent, he supported music education and community programs. Low's heartfelt performances and mentorship secured his place as a national treasure in New Zealand music.