January 19

Paris Bordone was born in 1495 in Treviso and trained in the workshop of Titian before establishing his own studio in Venice. He became renowned for his vivid use of color, elegant compositions, and detailed character studies in both religious and mythological subjects. Bordone’s notable works include portrait commissions for Venetian nobility and frescoes for churches and villas around the lagoon. His style blended Venetian colorism with influences from his travels in Rome and Padua, producing a distinctive artistic voice. Though overshadowed by some of his contemporaries, his paintings have gained recognition for their beauty and technical skill. Bordone died on January 19, 1571, leaving behind a body of work that enriches the legacy of the Venetian school.

Born around 1561 in Bruges, Marcus Gheeraerts the Younger fled to England with his family to escape Spanish rule. He mastered portraiture under his father and quickly gained favor at the court of Queen Elizabeth I and later King James I. Gheeraerts introduced naturalistic details, Italianate landscapes, and full-length compositions to English portrait painting. His acclaimed works include the 'Ditchley Portrait' of Elizabeth I and numerous distinguished depictions of nobility. His refined style and technical skill helped shape the trajectory of British art in the early 17th century. He died on January 19, 1636, leaving an influential artistic legacy.

Born in Florence in 1695, Giovanni Niccolò Servandoni studied painting and architecture in Rome before settling in France. He became a leading stage designer for the French court, creating spectacular sets and fireworks displays for royal festivities. Servandoni's architectural legacy includes the striking façade of Paris's Church of Saint-Sulpice, blending Baroque drama with classical form. He authored influential treatises on perspective, stagecraft, and urban decoration, shaping European aesthetic theory. His designs were realized in both France and the Austrian Netherlands, spreading his distinctive style across borders. He died on January 19, 1766, leaving a rich heritage at the intersection of architecture, art, and theater.

Born in Paris in 1791, Ferdinand Hérold entered the Paris Conservatoire at age 13, quickly distinguishing himself as a pianist. In 1811, he won the prestigious Prix de Rome, which allowed him to refine his compositional skills in Italy. Returning to France, Hérold composed ballets and chamber works before turning to opéra comique, where he found his true voice. His operas 'Zampa' (1831) and 'Le Pré aux clercs' (1832) were celebrated for their graceful melodies and dramatic flair. Hérold's music bridged the Classical and Romantic eras, influencing French operetta and later composers such as Offenbach. He died at the young age of 42 on January 19, 1833, leaving a lasting imprint on French musical theater.

Born in Ghent in 1840, de Munck studied cello at the Brussels Conservatory and quickly gained recognition for his virtuosic playing. He toured extensively across Europe, earning acclaim for his interpretations of Romantic repertoire. As a composer, de Munck published works for cello and piano that blended lyrical melodies with technical mastery. He collaborated with prominent musicians of his time, promoting Belgian musical traditions abroad. In addition to performing, he taught masterclasses and influenced the next generation of cellists. De Munck's legacy lives on through his recordings and enduring compositions, which continue to be celebrated by cellists today.

Born in Lyon in 1869, Tony Garnier studied at the École des Beaux-Arts and became a leading proponent of modern architecture and city planning. His visionary project, the Cité Industrielle, proposed a utopian industrial city emphasizing zoning, green spaces, and social welfare. Garnier's innovative ideas influenced the development of urban planning throughout the 20th century. Among his built works is the Stade de Gerland in Lyon, showcasing his functionalist approach and use of reinforced concrete. He also designed public buildings such as slaughterhouses and schools, integrating aesthetic simplicity with practical needs. Garnier's writings and teachings further disseminated his concepts, shaping the field of urbanism across Europe. He died in 1948, leaving a lasting impact on modern architectural and urban theory.

Michael Rabin was an American violin prodigy who rose to fame in his teens. He became the youngest winner of the Queen Elisabeth Competition in 1955. Rabin's interpretations of Paganini and Bach remain benchmarks for violinists. He performed with major orchestras worldwide, earning acclaim for his virtuosity. Despite a brief career cut short by illness, his recordings continue to inspire. His extraordinary technique and passionate performances set new standards in violin playing.

Thomas Hart Benton was a leading figure in the American Regionalist art movement. His mural works adorn public buildings across the United States. Benton's paintings depicted scenes of everyday American life with bold forms and vibrant colors. He taught at the Kansas City Art Institute and influenced artists like Jackson Pollock. His commitment to portraying national identity helped shape 20th-century American art. Benton's dynamic compositions continue to captivate art enthusiasts worldwide.

Francesca Woodman was an innovative American artist known for her intimate photography. Her work often featured ethereal self-portraits and blurred motion, exploring identity. Woodman's photographs were created in abandoned spaces and used long exposures. She published her first photobook at age 18 and exhibited internationally. Her career was cut short by her untimely death, yet her influence endures. Woodman's evocative imagery continues to captivate artists and photographers worldwide.

Born in Porto Alegre in 1945, Elis Regina began singing professionally at the age of fourteen. She quickly rose to fame in Brazil with her emotive performances and technical mastery. Her 1974 album Elis & Tom with composer Antonio Carlos Jobim is considered a landmark in Brazilian music. Known by the nickname Pimentinha, she influenced generations of artists with her dynamic stage presence. Despite her vibrant career, she struggled with personal pressures and died suddenly in 1982 at the age of 36, leaving behind a rich musical legacy.

Alberto Semprini was born in Italy in 1908 and later became a celebrated musician in Britain. He studied piano and composition before embarking on a career as a soloist and accompanist. From 1950 to 1979, he hosted the BBC radio programme Semprini Serenade, which made him a household name. He composed charming light music and scores for film and television. In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded the Order of the British Empire. Semprini died in 1990, remembered for bringing classical and popular tunes to millions of listeners.

Born in Prince Edward Island in 1938, Gene MacLellan rose to fame with his emotionally rich songwriting. He wrote the hit Snowbird for Anne Murray, which became an international success. He later penned Put Your Hand in the Hand, covered by the band Ocean and topping charts worldwide. MacLellan won Juno Awards for his work and influenced a generation of folk and pop artists. Despite his professional success, he battled personal struggles throughout his life. He died in 1995, leaving behind a legacy of timeless songs.