December 21

Władysław Witwicki was born in 1878 in Kharkiv and studied medicine and philosophy before becoming a pioneering psychologist in Poland. He translated key philosophical and psychological works by Plato, Descartes, and Freud into Polish, making these ideas accessible to his countrymen. Witwicki published influential studies on aesthetics, human perception, and the history of art, blending scholarly rigor with creative insight. An accomplished painter and sculptor, he exhibited his works in Warsaw and contributed original designs to the Polish decorative arts. He also researched and taught the history of literature and art, fostering a deeper appreciation of Poland’s cultural heritage. His interdisciplinary legacy continues to inspire psychologists, philosophers, and artists alike.

Eric Coates was born in 1886 in Hucknall, Nottinghamshire and studied at the Royal Academy of Music. He began his career as a violist in the Queen’s Hall Orchestra before focusing on composition around 1919. Coates crafted memorable light music pieces, including "By the Sleepy Lagoon," "Knightsbridge," and the iconic "The Dambusters March." His works became synonymous with British broadcasting and were frequently used as BBC signature tunes. Coates earned the nickname “the King of Light Music” for his ability to blend melody with vivid orchestration. He passed away in 1957, leaving a legacy that continues to enchant audiences with its charm and elegance.

Rosanjin was born in 1883 in Tochigi Prefecture and adopted the name Kitaoji Rosanjin in his youth. He studied under master calligraphers and developed a bold style that revitalized traditional Japanese script. An expert seal carver, he created distinctive stamps admired for their aesthetic and technical precision. Rosanjin’s paintings blended classical themes with modern sensibilities, earning him acclaim in Japan’s avant-garde circles. He also influenced Japanese cuisine presentation by crafting artistically designed tableware and dishes. He passed away in 1959, leaving a multifaceted artistic legacy that continues to inspire calligraphers and painters.

Born in 1891 in Montreal, Canada. He studied violin and piano before turning to composition, blending classical forms with Canadian folk themes. Champagne joined the faculty of the Montreal Conservatory in 1925, where he taught harmony and composition. His works include orchestral suites, chamber music, and piano pieces that helped define a Canadian musical identity. He co-founded the Montreal Symphony Orchestra and authored influential texts on music theory. His legacy endures through his contributions as both composer and educator.

Born in 1900 in Jullundur (now Jalandhar), British India. He wrote the lyrics for Pakistan's national anthem, adopted in 1954. Jullundhri composed Ghazals and Nazms that enriched Urdu poetry and music. He worked as an editor for literary magazines and promoted classical poetry. His patriotic and devotional compositions remain popular in South Asia. He is celebrated annually on Writers' Day in Pakistan.

Born in 1924 in Indianola, Mississippi. He rose to prominence with his powerful, left-handed guitar style and soulful vocals. His 1967 album "Born Under a Bad Sign" became a blues standard. King influenced countless rock and blues musicians, including Eric Clapton and Stevie Ray Vaughan. He toured extensively and recorded for major labels such as Stax Records. His signature string bending technique and emotional delivery cemented his legacy as a blues legend.

Nathan Milstein was born in Odessa in 1903 and studied at the St. Petersburg Conservatory. He emigrated to the United States in 1941, where he built a distinguished career as a soloist and chamber musician. Milstein was admired for his flawless phrasing, warm tone, and deep musicality. He championed both classical repertoire and contemporary works, premiering pieces by Bartók and Prokofiev. Throughout his six-decade career, he made numerous recordings that remain reference interpretations. Milstein also composed cadenzas and transcriptions, leaving a legacy as both performer and creator.

Udo Jürgens was born in 1934 in Klagenfurt and rose to fame with his 1966 Eurovision-winning song 'Merci, Chérie.' Over a career spanning six decades, he composed over 1,000 songs and sold more than 100 million records worldwide. Jürgens blended pop, jazz, and classical influences, earning widespread acclaim across Europe. He was known for his charismatic stage presence and memorable ballads. Later in life, he received numerous awards, including the Austrian Cross of Honour for Science and Art, before his death in 2014.