November 14

Born in Kyoto in 1617, Tosa Mitsuoki was a scion of the celebrated Tosa painting family. As head of the Tosa school, he modernized the traditional Yamato-e style by incorporating vibrant colors and refined compositions that appealed to the Edo period court. Mitsuoki served successive emperors and high-ranking patrons, creating scrolls that depicted imperial ceremonies, seasonal landscapes, and classical literature. His blend of classical technique with contemporary aesthetics laid the groundwork for future generations of Japanese artists. Many of his works are preserved in imperial collections and major museums.

Born in 1757 in Ruppersthal, Pleyel studied composition under Joseph Haydn in Vienna. He composed popular symphonies, string quartets, and chamber works that were widely performed in Europe. Relocating to France, he founded a music publishing house and, in 1807, established Pleyel et Cie, a piano factory in Paris. His pianos were prized by composers such as Frédéric Chopin for their rich tone and craftsmanship. Pleyel's dual legacy as a composer and instrument maker left an indelible mark on the classical music world.

Born in New York City in 1835, John La Farge studied art in Europe before returning to the United States. He revolutionized stained glass by developing opalescent glass techniques in the 1870s, influencing countless designers. La Farge's works adorn prestigious buildings such as Trinity Church in Boston and the stained glass windows of Grace Episcopal Church. Aside from glass, he produced murals, watercolors, and jewelry designs. He also wrote extensively on art theory and aesthetics. La Farge's commitment to craftsmanship and artistic innovation left a lasting legacy in American decorative arts before his death in 1910.

Charles Hylton Stewart was born in 1884 and became a respected organist in England. He held positions at several cathedrals, where he directed choirs and oversaw musical programs. Stewart composed a range of organ works, choral pieces, and hymn tunes that were performed across the country. His music blended traditional church styles with harmonic innovation. He also taught aspiring musicians, influencing the next generation of church organists. Stewart's career was cut short when he died on November 14, 1932, but his compositions continue to be celebrated.

Carl Flesch was born in 1873 in Moson, Hungary, and became one of the foremost violinists of his time. He enjoyed a distinguished performing career, appearing as a soloist across Europe and championing contemporary works. Flesch's pedagogical talents led him to teach at major conservatories, including in Amsterdam and Berlin. He authored the seminal 'Scale System' and 'Art of Violin Playing', texts still used by violinists today. Among his students were many who went on to international acclaim. Flesch died on November 14, 1944, leaving a lasting legacy in violin education.

Manuel de Falla was born in 1876 in Cádiz, Spain, and became a leading figure in Spanish musical nationalism. He studied in Madrid and Paris, absorbing diverse influences that he wove into his compositions. Falla's works include the ballet 'The Three-Cornered Hat', the chamber piece 'El sombrero de tres picos', and the 'Nights in the Gardens of Spain' for piano and orchestra. He departed Spain during the civil war, spending his final years in exile in Argentina. De Falla's music is celebrated for its rhythmic vitality and incorporation of Andalusian folk elements. He died on November 14, 1946, leaving a profound impact on Spanish and international music.

Joseph Allard was born in 1873 in Quebec and became one of Canada's most celebrated fiddlers. He made dozens of early recordings on phonograph cylinders, preserving traditional tunes for future generations. Allard composed numerous pieces that remain staples in the francophone folk repertoire. He toured extensively, sharing French-Canadian music across North America. As a teacher, he influenced many young musicians, helping to sustain and evolve the fiddling tradition. Allard died on November 14, 1947, but his contributions continue to resonate in folk communities.

Johnny Mack Brown first gained fame as a standout halfback for the University of Alabama, scoring the winning touchdown in the 1926 Rose Bowl. His athletic success caught the attention of Hollywood and led to a film career in the late 1920s. Brown became a beloved leading man in B-Western movies, often playing heroic cowboys on the silver screen. In addition to acting, he showcased his singing talent in several film productions, delighting audiences with his versatile performances. Over four decades, he appeared in more than 120 films, earning a loyal fan base. Brown’s transition from sports hero to screen icon illustrates his enduring appeal and versatility.

Nikitas Platis enjoyed a versatile career in Greek cinema spanning several decades. He began as a stage actor before transitioning to film, appearing in numerous dramas and comedies. Platis also honed his skills behind the camera as a cinematographer, crafting the visual tone of groundbreaking productions. His dual talents made him a respected figure among directors and peers alike. Throughout his career, he worked on projects that helped define Greek film during a period of cultural growth. Platis’s artistic vision and adaptability left a lasting impression on the industry.

Sol Kaplan composed dynamic orchestral music for films such as “Titanic” and “The Naked City,” infusing his scores with drama and emotion. His career spanned both Hollywood and television, where he created memorable themes for series like “Star Trek” and “Ironside.” In the early 1950s, Kaplan was blacklisted, halting his work in the film industry for several years. He later returned to television composition and dedicated himself to teaching at institutions like the Juilliard School. Kaplan’s resilience and mastery of orchestration influenced a generation of composers. His legacy endures in both his recordings and his contributions to music education.

Elena Nikolaidi (1909 – November 14, 2002) was a Greek-American operatic soprano celebrated for her dramatic stage presence. She studied voice in Athens and later made acclaimed appearances at the New York City Opera and La Scala. Nikolaidi joined the faculty at Indiana University's Jacobs School of Music, where she mentored a generation of singers. Her rich tone and expressive style earned her international acclaim in both opera and concert halls. She left a lasting legacy through her recordings and students around the world.

Michel Colombier (1939 – November 14, 2004) was a French-American composer whose career spanned film, television, and popular music. Trained at the Conservatoire de Paris, he brought classical techniques to modern soundtracks in Hollywood and Europe. Colombier collaborated with artists such as Barbra Streisand and Michael Jackson, blending orchestral arrangements with contemporary rhythms. He also composed concert works and served as a conductor. His innovative approach left a significant mark on both the cinema and music industries.