January 31

Born in 1759 in Joinville, Devienne served in the French army band before rising to prominence as a virtuoso flautist. He joined the newly founded Paris Conservatoire as a professor in 1795, influencing generations of woodwind players. Devienne composed six flute concertos, numerous chamber works, and instructional methods that standardized flute technique. His operas and symphonies also earned acclaim, blending classical clarity with expressive melodies. Praised by contemporaries like Haydn, he expanded the flute's repertoire and capabilities. Though he died in poverty in 1803, his contributions endured through his students and publications.

Franz Schubert was born in Vienna in 1797 into a musical family. He showed prodigious talent early and composed his first symphony at age 16. Over his brief life, he created more than 600 Lieder, defining the art song and influencing generations of composers. His instrumental works include nine symphonies, chamber music masterpieces like the 'Trout Quintet', and solo piano pieces such as the Impromptus. Schubert's music is noted for its lyrical melodies, rich harmonies, and emotional depth. Despite struggles with poverty and illness, he maintained a remarkable creative output until his death at 31 in 1828. His contributions helped usher in the Romantic era and his works remain central to the classical repertoire.

Rodolphe Töpffer was born in Geneva in 1799 and trained as a teacher. He began creating illustrated satirical stories featuring sequential art and humorous captions. His works, such as 'Histoire de Monsieur Jabot', are recognized as some of the earliest modern comics. Alongside cartooning, Töpffer also pursued painting and caricature, capturing the social life of his era. He published several volumes of illustrated tales that influenced future generations of comic artists. Töpffer's combination of text and image laid the foundation for graphic storytelling as an art form. He also contributed essays on education and pedagogy for his fellow teachers. Töpffer died in 1846 but left a lasting impact on both literature and visual arts.

Eddie Cantor was born in 1892 in New York City. He rose to fame in vaudeville acts and on Broadway, starring in hit musicals like 'Kid Boots' and 'Whoopee!'. Cantor became one of radio's first stars, known for his catchphrases and engaging storytelling. He also appeared in early talking films and made numerous TV appearances. Beyond entertainment, Cantor was active in charitable causes, supporting organizations like the March of Dimes. His energetic performances and innovative use of media paved the way for modern variety entertainment.

Isham Jones was born in 1894 in Coalton, Ohio. He formed his first band in the early 1910s and gained national attention with radio broadcasts and recordings. Jones composed enduring standards such as 'It Had to Be You' and 'I'll See You in My Dreams.' His orchestra combined jazz rhythms with popular melodies, influencing dance band music in the 1920s and 1930s. Jones operated his own record label for a time, supporting emerging talent. His songwriting and bandleading contributions left a significant mark on American popular music.

Betty Parsons was born in 1900 in New York City. Initially a painter herself, she turned to art dealing and opened the Betty Parsons Gallery in 1946. She became instrumental in promoting Abstract Expressionist artists such as Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, and Barnett Newman. Parsons organized groundbreaking exhibitions that introduced non-figurative art to American audiences. As a collector, she supported emerging artists financially and critically. Her dual role as artist and dealer helped shape the course of mid-20th-century American art.

Bobby Hackett was born on January 31, 1915, in Providence, Rhode Island. He rose to fame in the 1930s playing with big bands led by Glenn Miller and Bunny Berigan. Hackett's warm, expressive cornet and trumpet style made him a highly sought-after soloist in studio sessions and live performances. In the 1950s, he joined the Jackie Gleason Orchestra, contributing to the popular 'mood music' recordings that won wide acclaim. Hackett recorded numerous albums as a leader, showcasing his melodic improvisation and technical finesse. He collaborated with jazz greats such as Louis Armstrong and Jack Teagarden, highlighting his adaptability. Hackett remained active in recording and performing until his death in 1976. His recordings continue to influence trumpet and cornet players worldwide.

E. Fay Jones was born in 1921 in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, and served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He studied architecture at the University of Arkansas and later apprenticed under Frank Lloyd Wright at Taliesin West. Jones designed over 100 structures, blending natural materials with innovative forms to create serene spaces. His most famous work, the Thorncrown Chapel (1980), is celebrated for its glass-and-wood design that harmonizes with its forest setting. He received the American Institute of Architects Gold Medal in 1990 for his contributions to modern architecture. Jones also taught at the University of Arkansas, influencing generations of architects with his philosophy of organic design. He died in 2004, leaving a portfolio that continues to inspire architectural discourse worldwide.

Mario Lanza was born in 1921 in Philadelphia and rose to fame as a radio and recording star in the 1940s. He made his film debut in 'That Midnight Kiss' (1949) and achieved international success with 'The Great Caruso' (1951). Lanza's powerful voice and charismatic performances introduced operatic arias to mass audiences worldwide. He recorded several best-selling albums, bridging the gap between classical and popular music of his era. Despite his celebrity, he struggled with health issues that affected his later career and stage presence. Lanza's influence endures in crossover vocal performance, and he remains a touchstone for aspiring tenors. He died in 1959, remembered as one of the 20th century's most vibrant and passionate musical talents.

Born in Atlanta, Georgia, Chuck Willis earned the nickname "King of the Stroll" with his hit songs like "C.C. Rider" and "What Am I Living For?". He began his music career in the late 1940s and quickly rose to fame with his emotive vocal style and innovative rhythms. Willis wrote many of his own songs, blending blues, gospel, and early rock elements. His performances and recordings influenced later rock and roll artists, and he remains a key figure in the development of R&B. Despite his success, his life and career were cut short when he died at the age of 32. His legacy endures through his recordings and the artists he inspired.

Born in Philadelphia in 1927, Norm Prescott began his career in television composing music and producing animation. In 1963, he co-founded Filmation Studios with Lou Scheimer, pioneering Saturday morning cartoons. Under his leadership, Filmation produced series such as Star Trek: The Animated Series, Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids, and He-Man and the Masters of the Universe. Prescott oversaw creative development, voice direction, and musical scoring, elevating television animation quality. His work helped define a generation of animated entertainment and influenced future studios. He remained active in the industry until his retirement and passed away in 2005.

Born in Los Angeles in 1930, Al De Lory began his music career as a session musician, playing piano and harpsichord. He joined Capitol Records, arranging and conducting for artists such as Glen Campbell, Nancy Sinatra, and Harry Nilsson. De Lory produced iconic hits like "Wichita Lineman," "Galveston," and "Gentle on My Mind," helping define the country-pop crossover sound. He won a Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Performance and was respected for his sophisticated production techniques. Beyond the studio, he conducted orchestras across the United States and mentored aspiring musicians. De Lory continued to influence the music industry until his death in 2012, leaving an enduring legacy.