November 21

Born in 1659, Henry Purcell was a seminal figure of the English Baroque era. He served as organist at Westminster Abbey and the Chapel Royal, composing music for royal occasions. His genius shines in works like the opera Dido and Aeneas and the celebrated anthem 'Welcome to All the Pleasures.' Purcell's style blended French and Italian harmonies with English choral tradition. He composed odes, anthems, instrumental suites, and chamber music, leaving a rich and varied output. Purcell died at the age of 36 on November 21, 1695, yet his music remains central to Britain's cultural heritage.

Bernardo Pasquini (1637–1710) was a key figure in the Italian Baroque, excelling as a composer and organist. He studied in Rome and held prestigious posts at churches and papal chapels. Pasquini's works include operas, cantatas, and keyboard sonatas noted for their virtuosity and wit. His inventive fugues and toccatas pushed the boundaries of harpsichord technique. He taught generations of musicians, influencing the early development of Italian opera. Pasquini's music bridged sacred and secular traditions before his death in 1710.

Born in Reus, Catalonia in 1838, Fortuny studied art in Barcelona and Rome. He gained international acclaim for his intricate compositions and luminous palette. His travels to Morocco inspired exotic themes and masterful watercolors. Fortuny's technical skill and attention to detail influenced 19th-century European painting. He died prematurely at the age of 36, leaving a lasting impact on the art world.

Born in Dresden in 1876, Modersohn-Becker studied art in Paris and the Worpswede colony. She was one of the first female artists to paint nude self-portraits. Her bold use of color and form influenced the Expressionist movement. Modersohn-Becker's works explored themes of motherhood, nature, and identity. She died at the age of 31, but her innovative style left a lasting legacy in modern art.

Born in Stavanger in 1851, Krøyer became a leading figure among the Skagen Painters. He captured everyday life and the unique light of the Danish coast in his works. His painting "Summer Evening on Skagen Beach" is celebrated for its atmospheric glow. Krøyer's mastery of color and composition made him one of Scandinavia's greatest artists. He battled mental illness in later years but left behind a rich artistic legacy.

Leopold Godowsky (1870–1938) was celebrated as one of the greatest pianists of his era. Born in Warsaw and raised in the United States, he gained fame for his extraordinary finger technique and expressive interpretations. Godowsky composed original works and transcriptions, notably his Studies on Chopin's Études, which remain benchmarks of piano repertoire. He toured extensively across Europe and America, influencing generations of pianists with masterclasses and recordings. Godowsky's legacy endures through his compositions and contributions to piano pedagogy until his death on November 21, 1938.

Born in New Orleans in 1893, Shields was a founding member of the New Orleans Rhythm Kings. He helped popularize Dixieland jazz and influenced clarinetists for generations. Shields recorded hit tunes such as "Tin Roof Blues" that became jazz standards. Known for his warm tone and inventive improvisation, he toured extensively in the 1920s. He later settled in Chicago, where he continued to perform and mentor younger musicians. His work remains a cornerstone of traditional jazz history.

Artur Lemba was an influential Estonian composer born in 1885 who studied at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory. He composed the first Estonian piano concerto and created numerous chamber works, piano pieces, and songs. Lemba returned to Estonia to teach piano and composition at the Tallinn Conservatory, nurturing generations of musicians. His pedagogical approach and compositions laid the foundation for Estonia’s vibrant classical music scene. Lemba’s work bridged Russian musical training with Estonian cultural expression. He passed away in 1963, leaving a lasting impact on Baltic music education.

Frank Martin was a Swiss-Dutch composer and pianist born in 1890, celebrated for his fusion of modernism with traditional musical forms. He studied in Paris under Vincent d’Indy and developed a personal style incorporating polyphony, jazz influences, and late-Romantic harmony. Martin’s notable works include the oratorio “Golgotha,” the ballet “Der Sturm,” and multiple chamber pieces and concertos. As a performer, he premiered many of his compositions and championed new music. He also taught at the Geneva Conservatory, mentoring future composers. Martin’s music remains influential for its expressive depth and technical mastery. He died in 1974, leaving a significant mark on classical music.

Born in 1904, Jerry Colonna gained fame as Bob Hope’s zany sidekick on radio and in films. His exaggerated facial expressions and memorable catchphrases made him a comedic icon. Colonna also recorded comedic songs and performed in nightclubs across America. He appeared in over a dozen films alongside Hope, showcasing his unique style. Beyond entertainment, he was a talented vocalist and songwriter. His influence is seen in generations of radio and television comedians.

Born in 1956, Williams began performing in local clubs, blending rock, blues, and R&B influences into his music. He gained a following for his dynamic drumming style and heartfelt songwriting, collaborating with regional bands and artists. Throughout his career, he recorded singles that resonated with underground music fans and appeared on various studio sessions. His energetic performances and passion for rhythm made him a respected figure among fellow musicians. Williams's life and career were cut short with his untimely passing in 1992, but his recordings continue to inspire emerging drummer-songwriters today.

Bernard Rose was a pivotal figure in English church music, known for his elegant compositions for choir and organ. He wrote numerous settings of liturgical texts and created organ preludes that remain popular in worship services. Rose gave recitals across the UK and Europe, impressing audiences with his sensitive playing and deep musicality. He also taught budding musicians, sharing his passion for sacred music and composition. His published works and recordings continue to influence church music directors and organists today. Rose passed away in 1996, leaving a rich musical legacy that endures in cathedrals worldwide.