February 05

Born in 1520 near Bergamo, Giovanni Battista Moroni became renowned for his lifelike portraits that captured the personalities of his sitters with unprecedented realism. Working primarily in the courts of northern Italy, he painted nobles, clergy, and wealthy patrons, blending detail-rich costume depiction with subtle psychological insight. Moroni's style bridged the Venetian coloristic tradition and Lombard naturalism, earning him a reputation as one of the leading portraitists of his era. His works, such as The Tailor and Portrait of a Gentleman in a Fur-Lined Robe, remain masterpieces of Renaissance art. Despite a modest output, his influence persisted through his pupils and followers in Lombardy.

Adela Verne (1877–1952) was an English pianist and composer celebrated for her virtuosic technique and interpretive depth. Born in Nottingham, she gained prominence in Europe and toured internationally. Verne was renowned for her interpretations of Romantic repertoire, particularly works by Chopin and Liszt. In addition to her performing career, she composed a number of piano pieces and chamber works. She was also a dedicated teacher who influenced a generation of pianists through her pedagogical commitments. Her contributions helped shape the musical landscape of her time, breaking ground for women in the classical music world.

Jacques Ibert (1890–1962) was a French composer renowned for his eclectic and innovative compositions. A student at the Paris Conservatoire, he won the Prix de Rome in 1919, which launched his prolific career. Ibert’s body of work includes lighthearted orchestral suites such as Escales and dramatic operas like Angélique. He also composed film scores and ballets, demonstrating his adaptability across musical forms. From 1937 to 1960, he served as director of the Académie de France in Rome, influencing a generation of composers. Ibert’s style combined impressionistic color with neoclassical structure, ensuring his music’s enduring popularity.

Rudy Pompilli (1926–1976) was an American saxophonist who rose to fame as a member of Bill Haley & His Comets. His dynamic solos on seminal tracks like Rock Around the Clock helped define the sound of early rock and roll. Pompilli joined the Comets in 1955 and remained a key member through numerous recordings and international tours. He also composed instrumental pieces and occasionally led the band during Haley's absences. Known for his stage charisma and technical skill, he became one of rock music's first prominent horn players. Pompilli’s influence is recognized by music historians as pivotal in integrating saxophone into mainstream rock and roll.

Joe Raposo was an American composer, pianist, and lyricist closely associated with the children's television program 'Sesame Street.' He wrote the show's theme song and classics such as 'C Is for Cookie' and 'Bein' Green.' Raposo blended jazz, pop, and classical influences to create memorable, family-friendly music. He also composed for 'The Electric Company' and worked on Broadway musicals. His work earned multiple Emmy Awards and remains influential in children's entertainment.

William Pène du Bois (1916–1993) was an American author and illustrator celebrated for his imaginative children's books. His novel 'The Twenty-One Balloons' won the 1948 Newbery Medal and remains a classic of juvenile literature. Born in Geneva, he moved to the United States in childhood and published over fifty works, blending adventure with whimsical science fiction. Du Bois's pen-and-ink illustrations featured intricate details that complemented his playful narratives. He often incorporated scientific concepts and fantastical inventions, captivating young imaginations. His influence endures through the lasting popularity of his stories and the artists he inspired.

Tim Kelly (1963–1998) was an American musician celebrated as the lead guitarist for the glam metal band Slaughter. He co-wrote hit songs like 'Up All Night' and 'Fly to the Angels', contributing to the band's platinum-selling debut album in the early 1990s. Kelly's melodic solo style and stage charisma helped define Slaughter's dynamic live performances. Before joining the band, he honed his skills with various local groups in Oklahoma. His collaborations extended beyond Slaughter, marking him as a respected figure in the rock community. Tragically, Kelly died in a car accident at age 34, but his musical legacy endures through his recordings and the guitarists he inspired.

Claude Autant-Lara (1901–2000) was a prominent French filmmaker whose career spanned six decades. He co-wrote and directed classics such as 'Le Diable au corps' (1947) and 'La Traversée de Paris' (1956), showcasing his sharp wit and critical eye on French society. His films often featured strong female leads and tackled themes of morality, class conflict, and romantic entanglements. Autant-Lara's technical skill, narrative flair, and satirical sensibility earned him international acclaim. He mentored emerging talent and influenced the French New Wave, even while maintaining his own distinct style. Despite later controversies over his political views, his contributions to cinema remain influential. Autant-Lara's legacy endures in the canon of 20th-century French film as a master storyteller and social commentator.

John Hench (1908–2004) was a legendary American animator, artist, and designer whose career at Walt Disney spanned over six decades. He contributed to classics like 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' and 'Fantasia' as a layout artist before becoming Walt Disney's trusted advisor on color and design. Hench played a central role in the visual conception of iconic attractions such as Space Mountain and Main Street, U.S.A. As a founding member of Walt Disney Imagineering, he received the Disney Legend award in 1991. His murals, concept art, and architectural renderings remain integral to Disney parks worldwide. Hench's pioneering work bridged animation and immersive experiences, inspiring generations of artists and designers.

Al De Lory (1930-2012) was a renowned keyboardist, arranger, and record producer from Los Angeles. He played on Phil Spector's iconic 'Wall of Sound' recordings and early Beach Boys sessions. De Lory arranged and conducted hits such as 'California Girls' and 'Help Me, Rhonda'. As a producer, he worked closely with Glen Campbell on chart-topping albums like Gentle on My Mind. His musical versatility bridged pop, country, and folk genres, contributing to countless records. He continued performing, arranging, and mentoring young musicians until his passing. De Lory's innovative spirit helped define an era of American popular music.

Egil Hovland was born in 1924 in Rakkestad, Norway, and studied organ and composition at Norwegian and German conservatories. Over his career, he composed more than 700 works, including symphonies, cantatas, chamber pieces, and organ solos. His music bridged traditional liturgical forms with modern techniques, earning him acclaim across Europe. Hovland served as an organist and conductor at various churches and music festivals, promoting Norwegian choral and orchestral music. He was awarded the King’s Medal of Merit and the Order of St. Olav for his contributions to Norway’s cultural heritage.

Marisa Del Frate was born in Rome in 1931 and won the Miss Italia pageant in 1953, launching her show business career. She became a staple on Italian television variety shows, showcasing her singing talent and charismatic stage presence. Del Frate recorded several charting songs and appeared in a number of films and theater productions across Italy. Her versatility as both a vocalist and actress made her a beloved figure in post-war Italian entertainment. She remained active in the arts for decades, inspiring future generations of performers before her passing in 2015.