September 30

Johann Sebastiani was born in 1622 in Germany and emerged as a notable composer of the early Baroque era. He crafted sacred motets, madrigals, and instrumental pieces that blended Italianate styles with German traditions. Serving in various church positions, he wrote music for liturgical services and court festivities. Sebastiani was admired for his skillful counterpoint and rich harmonies, bringing emotional depth to vocal compositions. Although some of his works are lost, surviving pieces reveal his innovative approach to musical expression. His contributions influenced later developments in Protestant church music. Sebastiani died in 1683, leaving a testament to the evolving Baroque soundscape.

Jacques Aubert was born in Paris in 1689 and became one of the leading violinists of his time. He composed over one hundred works, including violin sonatas, concertos, and chamber pieces that showcased his technical brilliance and melodic flair. Aubert served in the King's Chamber Music ensemble and enjoyed a long tenure with the Paris Opera. His compositions balanced elegant melodies with virtuosic passages, reflecting the ornate style of the French Baroque. He collaborated with prominent musicians and influenced the development of violin technique in France. Aubert also published collections of arias and instrumental pieces, demonstrating his versatility. He died in 1753, remembered for elevating French violin performance and composition.

Born in Dresden, Christian Ehregott Weinlig served as cantor at the Kreuzkirche, composing numerous sacred works including cantatas and motets. He contributed significantly to Lutheran church music and was known for his expressive organ compositions. His role as choirmaster influenced the liturgical traditions of his time. Weinlig’s pedagogical efforts shaped the next generation of musicians. His compositions bridged Baroque and Classical styles, reflecting the evolving tastes of Europe. He remained at the Kreuzkirche until his death in 1813, leaving a lasting musical legacy.

Born in London into an architectural family, Decimus Burton quickly distinguished himself with elegant neoclassical buildings. He designed notable structures in London, including parts of Hyde Park and the entrance to Regent’s Park. Burton was commissioned to create the Pharos Lighthouse at Fleetwood, showcasing his versatility. His work extended to seaside resorts, where he shaped the appearance of Victorian coastal towns. A founding member of the Institute of British Architects, he influenced generations of architects. His legacy is visible across Britain’s public and private architectural heritage.

Born in Dublin into a prominent Anglo-Irish family, Stanford studied in Cambridge and Leipzig. He composed symphonies, concertos, choral works, and the popular Six Irish Rhapsodies. As a professor at Cambridge University and co-founder of the Royal College of Music, he mentored Holst, Vaughan Williams, and others. Stanford conducted major festivals and championed British composers on international stages. His music blended Irish folk themes with German Romantic traditions, forging a unique voice. He left behind a rich catalog of works that shaped early 20th-century British music.

Edgar Parin d'Aulaire was born in Munich in 1898 and later emigrated to the United States. Alongside his wife Ingri d'Aulaire, he produced dozens of beloved illustrated books that brought mythological tales to young readers. Their notable works include 'Odin and Thor' (1936) and 'Abraham Lincoln' (1939), which won the Newbery Medal. D'Aulaire's detailed pen and ink illustrations and engaging narrative style set a new standard for children's literature. He also worked as a muralist and designer earlier in his career. D'Aulaire's contributions continue to influence illustrators and storytellers in the genre.

Thelma Terry was born in 1901 in Chicago and became one of the earliest female jazz instrumentalists to gain widespread recognition. She formed Thelma Terry and Her Playboys in 1927, featuring an all-male band, and later led an all-female orchestra. Terry's remarkable skill on the double bass and charismatic leadership broke gender barriers in the male-dominated jazz scene. She recorded several sides with Victor Records and toured extensively across the United States. Despite a short-lived career, her influence paved the way for future generations of female jazz musicians. Terry retired from music in the late 1920s and pursued other interests until her death in 1966.

Michael Powell was born in 1905 in Bekesbourne, England, and became one of the most innovative British filmmakers of the 20th century. He collaborated with Emeric Pressburger on classics such as 'The Red Shoes' (1948) and 'A Matter of Life and Death' (1946). Powell's films are celebrated for their imaginative visuals, bold color use, and exploration of psychological themes. He began his career making travel documentaries before moving into feature films. Despite periods of critical neglect, his work was rediscovered and reevaluated in the 1970s, earning him international acclaim. Powell's influence can be seen in the work of many modern directors drawn to his blend of dreamlike storytelling and technical craftsmanship.

Mireille Hartuch, known simply as 'Mireille', was born in Paris in 1906 and became a beloved figure in French entertainment. She wrote and performed hits like 'Mon homme' and starred in films and revues throughout the 1930s and 1940s. After World War II, she founded the songwriters' school École d'Arts Chansonniers to teach new generations of artists. Mireille's warmth and musical talent earned her a lasting legacy in French chanson. She also appeared on radio and television, bringing her music to wider audiences. Mireille continued to perform and teach until her death in 1996, leaving an indelible mark on French song and film.

David Oistrakh was born in Odessa in 1908 and rose to fame as one of the 20th century's leading violinists. He served as a professor at the Moscow Conservatory, nurturing many future virtuosos. Oistrakh toured internationally, earning acclaim for performances of both classical repertoire and contemporary works. Composers such as Dmitri Shostakovich and Aram Khachaturian dedicated violin concertos to him. His recordings are still praised for their warm sound, technical mastery, and deep interpretive insight. Oistrakh died in 1974, but his influence continues through his recordings and the achievements of his students.

Buddy Rich (1917–1987) was an American jazz drummer and bandleader widely regarded as one of the greatest drummers of all time. Starting as a child vaudeville performer, he gained fame leading big bands and recording acclaimed albums like Big Swing Face and Swingin' New Big Band. Known for his blistering speed, intricate solos, and fiery personality, Rich influenced generations of percussionists. He also appeared in films and television, showcasing his larger-than-life persona. Even after decades on the stage, he maintained a rigorous touring schedule until his death, cementing his status as a jazz legend.