October 14

Jacques Arcadelt (1507–1568) was a leading Renaissance composer who worked in Rome before settling in France. His four books of madrigals published in the 1530s achieved widespread acclaim and shaped the early development of the madrigal genre. Arcadelt’s clear vocal textures and melodic charm made his secular and sacred works popular across Europe. His famous madrigal 'Il bianco e dolce cigno' remains a masterpiece of the period. His contributions helped establish Franco-Flemish influence in European music.

Antonio Cesti was born in Arezzo and trained as an organist before turning to composition. He joined the court of the Habsburgs in Innsbruck, where he composed his early operas. His works, including 'Orontea' and 'Il pomo d'oro,' became some of the most popular of the Baroque era. He served at courts in Vienna and Venice, blending Italian lyricism with grand ceremonial style. His operas remain key works in the Baroque repertoire after his death in 1669.

Born in Prussia in 1844, Berger led military bands before accepting an invitation to Hawaii. Appointed Kapellmeister by King Kalākaua in 1872, he shaped the Hawaiian royal band's repertoire. He composed the music for the Hawaiian national anthem 'Hawaiʻi Ponoʻī'. Berger introduced European musical techniques to Hawaiian traditions. His influence is still celebrated in Hawaiian music festivals today.

Jack Davey was born in 1907 in New Zealand and moved to Australia in 1931 to pursue a career in entertainment. He began as a singer before transitioning to radio, where his warm voice and quick wit resonated with listeners. Davey hosted popular programs such as "The Jack Davey Show" and became one of the highest-paid personalities on Australian radio. His influence helped shape the format of variety and quiz shows in the country. Beyond radio, he made appearances in film and supported emerging talent in broadcasting. Davey passed away in 1959, remembered as a trailblazer in Australian media.

Errol Flynn was born in 1909 in Tasmania and rose to fame after moving to Hollywood in the mid-1930s. He gained international stardom for his swashbuckling performances in films like "Captain Blood" and "The Adventures of Robin Hood". Flynn's charismatic acting style and on-screen prowess made him one of the top box-office stars of the 1940s. In addition to acting, he pursued singing and film production, showcasing his versatility behind the camera. His adventurous off-screen life and love of sailing added to his public allure. Flynn died in 1959, leaving a legacy as one of cinema's most enduring icons.

Bing Crosby was an American singer, actor, and entertainer born in 1903. He became one of the best-selling recording artists of the 20th century, with hits like 'White Christmas.' Crosby won an Academy Award for his performance in the film 'Going My Way.' He helped bridge the gap between music, radio, and television, shaping modern entertainment. Known for his relaxed singing style and effortless charm, Crosby influenced generations of performers. He remains a cultural icon, with his holiday recordings becoming annual favorites worldwide.

Born in 1916 in Odessa, Emil Gilels rose to international acclaim as one of the 20th century's foremost pianists. He won the prestigious Warsaw Chopin Competition in 1949, launching a distinguished concert career. Known for his impeccable technique, deep musicality, and expansive repertoire, Gilels performed with leading orchestras around the world. His recordings of Beethoven, Brahms, and Prokofiev remain benchmarks of piano artistry. Beyond performance, he taught at the Moscow Conservatory, influencing generations of pianists. Gilels's legacy endures through his extensive discography and lasting impact on classical music performance.

Born in 1918 in Lawrence, Massachusetts, Leonard Bernstein became one of America's most influential musicians. He served as music director of the New York Philharmonic, captivating audiences with charismatic conducting and innovative programming. Bernstein composed enduring works such as the musical 'West Side Story', 'Chichester Psalms', and 'Candide'. A passionate educator, he presented the acclaimed 'Young People's Concerts', bringing classical music to millions on television. His versatility spanned classical symphonies, Broadway musicals, and film scores. Bernstein's artistry and commitment to music education left an indelible mark on cultural life worldwide.

Born in 1916 in Cleveland, Ohio, Frankie Yankovic became America's most famous polka musician. He earned the nickname 'America's Polka King' through his recordings and lively performances that brought polka to mainstream audiences. Yankovic won the first-ever Grammy Award for Best Polka Album in 1986, cementing his influence on the genre. His energetic style and tight band arrangements made him a staple of dance halls and radio programs. He toured internationally, sharing polka music with fans around the world. Yankovic's recordings continue to be celebrated by polka enthusiasts for their joy and authenticity.

Born in 1911 in Hagen, Schultze studied music at the Berlin Hochschule für Musik. He gained fame in 1938 with his composition 'Lili Marleen,' which became a popular wartime anthem. Schultze composed scores for over 50 films and worked as a conductor for German radio orchestras. After the war, he continued to write music for theater, film, and television. His work bridged classical traditions and popular music, leaving a lasting legacy in 20th-century composition.

Born Baldemar Huerta in 1937 in San Benito, Texas, he adopted the stage name Freddy Fender. He achieved national success in 1975 with the hit single 'Before the Next Teardrop Falls,' which reached number one on both country and pop charts. Fender's music blended rockabilly, country, and Tejano influences, breaking cultural barriers. He won a Grammy Award for his comeback album in the 1980s and was celebrated for his soulful voice. Fender's legacy endures as a pioneer of cross-genre music and a symbol of Chicano cultural pride.

Dody Weston Thompson was born in 1923 and began her photographic career under the mentorship of prominent figures like Imogen Cunningham and Ansel Adams. She became an accomplished printer and colorist, working on large-format landscapes and portraits that blended technical precision with artistic vision. In the 1950s and 1960s, Thompson exhibited her work across California galleries and contributed to photography journals. She served as a caretaker and editor for Ansel Adams, helping to preserve and publish his archive. Thompson also wrote influential essays on photographic printing techniques and mentored younger photographers. Her legacy endures in the evolution of fine art photography in America.