November 16

Sofonisba Anguissola (c.1532–1625) was born into a noble family in Cremona, Italy. She studied under Bernardino Campi and became a masterful portraitist. Anguissola served as court painter to Philip II of Spain, capturing the royal family with sensitivity. Her work is noted for realistic detail and psychological depth. She broke barriers for women artists during the Renaissance. After marriage, she continued painting and mentoring other female painters. Her legacy endures as a pioneering woman in the art world of her time.

Paolo Quagliati (1555–1628) was a Rome-born composer and organist of the early Baroque period. He served at Santa Maria Maggiore and other Roman churches as organist and maestro di cappella. Quagliati composed madrigals, motets, and one of the earliest oratorios, blending Renaissance polyphony with emerging Baroque styles. His published organ works display inventive textures and harmonic richness. He was a member of the Accademia Filarmonica and influenced contemporary composers. Quagliati's contributions helped shape the transition from Renaissance to Baroque music.

Miina Härma studied at the Leipzig Conservatory and returned to Estonia as one of its first professional female musicians. She composed over 200 choral works that blended Estonian folk motifs with classical forms, many of which remain staples in choirs today. Härma founded women’s singing societies and served as a conductor at national song festivals, promoting female participation in cultural life. As an organist, she introduced new repertoire to Estonian churches and concert halls. She taught composition and music theory at the Tartu Music School, mentoring future generations of Estonian musicians. Her dedication to national identity through music solidified her reputation as a cultural pioneer.

Vic Dickenson began his career in the 1920s performing in Kansas City before rising to prominence with Fletcher Henderson and Count Basie’s orchestras. Known for his warm, lyrical trombone solos, he became a sought-after musician in the swing era and beyond. Dickenson recorded with legends such as Benny Goodman and Billie Holiday, showcasing his versatility and improvisational skill. In later years, he led his own ensembles and appeared at jazz festivals worldwide. His distinctive style influenced generations of brass players and cemented his status as a jazz classic.

Born in 1939 in Bratislava, Lucia Popp studied voice at the Bratislava Conservatory. She made her professional debut in 1963 and quickly gained acclaim at the Vienna State Opera. Known for roles ranging from Mozart heroines to Strauss and Wagner operas, she also appeared at the Royal Opera House and the Metropolitan Opera. Popp's recordings of Mozart, Strauss, and Wagner arias remain benchmarks for lyric sopranos. She passed away in 1993, leaving a legacy of artistic excellence and passionate performances.

Born as James Chesmore Powers in 1943, Chet Powers wrote the iconic peace anthem "Get Together," popularized by The Youngbloods. Performing under the name Dino Valenti, he was a pioneering figure in the 1960s folk-rock scene. Powers led the band Quicksilver Messenger Service, recording influential albums and touring widely. Despite struggles with legal issues, his songwriting left a lasting mark on the era's counterculture. He passed away in 1994, remembered for his heartfelt lyrics and distinctive voice.

Born in Malatya in 1957, Ahmet Kaya blended traditional Turkish music with contemporary folk to create powerful, socially conscious songs. His outspoken support for minority rights and democracy led to controversy and exile in France in the late 1990s. Kaya released several acclaimed albums, including "Şarkılarım" and "Yorgun Demokrat," which resonated across linguistic and cultural lines. He continued to champion peace and equality until his untimely death in 2000. Today, he is celebrated as a voice of dissent and unity in Turkish music.

Born in Detroit in 1930, Tommy Flanagan moved to New York City to join the bebop revolution. He played with jazz legends such as Ella Fitzgerald, Sonny Rollins, and John Coltrane, earning a reputation for his refined touch and harmonic sophistication. Leading his own trios and piano ensembles, Flanagan recorded classic albums like "Overseas" and "Something Borrowed, Something Blue." He also contributed memorable solos on landmark recordings such as John Coltrane's "Giant Steps." Flanagan's career spanned over five decades until his death in 2001.

Grethe Kausland was born in 1947 in Kristiansand, Norway. She made her debut at age six, performing on radio and film as a child prodigy. Kausland later became a celebrated jazz singer, known for her wide vocal range and emotive performances. She also starred in numerous Norwegian films, television shows, and musical theatre productions. Her talent for comedy and music endeared her to audiences of all ages. Kausland remained active in the arts throughout her life, leaving a rich legacy when she died in 2007.

Wyngard Tracy was a prominent figure in Philippine show business, beginning his career as a disc jockey on radio before transitioning to television. He became one of the country’s leading talent managers, guiding the careers of numerous artists and performers. Tracy's keen eye for talent and understanding of audience tastes helped launch the success of many Filipino celebrities. He also appeared as a judge on popular talent shows, further cementing his role as an entertainment authority. Known for his charismatic personality and mentorship, Tracy contributed significantly to the growth of the local music and film industries. His sudden passing in 2010 was a great loss to the entertainment community. Tracy’s legacy endures through the artists he nurtured and the impact of his work on Philippine media.

Charles Waterhouse (1924–2013) was an American painter, sculptor, and illustrator. His versatile body of work spanned canvas, sculpture, and book illustration. He received commissions for public art installations and commemorative projects. Waterhouse's pieces were noted for their attention to detail and expressive realism. He exhibited across the United States, earning critical acclaim in the art community. As an illustrator, he contributed to publications in history and literature. Waterhouse's legacy endures through his substantial contributions to American visual arts.