February 07

Margaret Fownes-Luttrell was an English painter of the Georgian era known for her delicate and expressive portraits. Her work captured the elegance and character of her subjects, often members of the British gentry. As one of the few professional female artists of the 18th century, she navigated a male-dominated art world to build her reputation. Although only a limited number of her paintings survive, they remain valued for their technical skill and historical insight. Her contributions paved the way for later generations of women in the visual arts.

Henry Fuseli was a Swiss-English painter celebrated for his dramatic compositions and exploration of supernatural and mythological subjects. He produced iconic works such as The Nightmare, which exemplified the Romantic fascination with the uncanny. Appointed Keeper of the Royal Academy in London, he influenced a generation of British artists through his teaching and critiques. Fuseli's bold use of color and theatrical scenes left a lasting impact on European art. His intellectual approach and charismatic personality made him a central figure in late 18th and early 19th-century art circles.

Benedikt Schack was a Czech tenor and composer best known for his collaboration with Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. He sang the role of Tamino in the premiere of The Magic Flute and contributed to its musical development. Schack also composed several Singspiele and chamber works, though his compositions are less known today. As a performer, he was admired for his lyrical voice and stage presence. His close association with Mozart's circle placed him at the heart of late 18th-century Viennese opera.

Alfred-Philibert Aldrophe was a French architect active in the late 19th century, distinguished by his refined Beaux-Arts style. He designed prominent synagogues in Paris, including those on Boulevard de la Victoire, contributing significantly to the city's religious architecture. Aldrophe also worked on schools and civic buildings, integrating classical proportions with decorative sculpture. His work reflected the cultural and religious diversity of the French capital during the Third Republic. Aldrophe's buildings remain important examples of French architectural heritage.

Arthur Collins was one of the first American baritone vocalists to gain widespread fame through phonograph recordings. He recorded more than two hundred tracks for Columbia and Victor Records between 1898 and 1920. His rich voice and clear diction made songs such as After the Ball household favorites. Collins toured extensively, bringing popular music to audiences across the United States. He played a key role in establishing the viability of recorded music as a commercial entertainment medium.

Wilhelm Stenhammar emerged as one of Sweden's leading musical figures in the early 1900s. He composed symphonies, chamber music, and piano works noted for their lyrical expression. His Symphony No. 2 and Cello Concerto in G minor remain staples of the Nordic repertoire. Stenhammar served as conductor of the Gothenburg Orchestra from 1907 to 1922, raising its international profile. He championed Swedish composers and influenced a generation of Nordic musicians. Stenhammar's dual talents as pianist and composer shaped the musical identity of his homeland. He continued to compose and perform until his death in 1927.

Erkki Melartin studied under Ferruccio Busoni before developing a distinctive Nordic style. He composed six symphonies, operas, chamber music, and choral works celebrated for their lyricism. Melartin served as conductor of the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra from 1911 to 1913. His Aino Legend Opera and Florestan Suite showcase his gift for orchestral color and melodic invention. He championed Finnish music alongside contemporaries like Jean Sibelius and shaped Finland's concert scene. Melartin taught at the Helsinki Conservatory, influencing a new generation of composers. He continued composing until his death in 1937, leaving a legacy of national romanticism.

Ossip Gabrilowitsch first gained acclaim as a child prodigy pianist in Russia and Europe. He toured extensively before settling in the United States in the early 20th century. In 1918 he became the founding conductor of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, leading it until 1936. Gabrilowitsch was also known for his marriage to Clara Clemens, daughter of Mark Twain. His interpretations of Romantic repertoire and skillful leadership elevated the orchestra's reputation. After returning to Europe briefly, he continued guest conducting while composing piano works. Gabrilowitsch died in 1936, remembered as a key figure in American orchestral music.

James Hubert 'Eubie' Blake was a pioneering American pianist and composer born in 1887. He co-wrote the groundbreaking musical Shuffle Along in 1921, one of the first Broadway shows by African American artists. Blake's inventive ragtime rhythms and melodic flair bridged the transition to early jazz. He received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1960 for his influential work. Blake continued performing into his nineties, delighting audiences with his spirited style. His autobiography and numerous recordings preserve his musical legacy. He passed away in 1983, leaving an indelible mark on American music history.

Nicanor Abelardo was a Filipino pianist and composer born in 1893. He studied music at the University of the Philippines and later at the Chicago Musical College. Abelardo composed iconic art songs such as "Nasaan Ka Irog?" and "Mutya ng Pasig," blending Western techniques with Filipino themes. He is credited with establishing the kundiman as a sophisticated vocal art form in the Philippines. As a teacher, he influenced a generation of Filipino musicians. He served as founding head of the University of the Philippines Conservatory of Music. His works remain staples in Filipino concert repertoires. Abelardo died in 1934, leaving a lasting legacy in Philippine music history.

Russell Drysdale was a pioneering painter whose stark, lyrical portrayals of the Australian outback reshaped modern art. Born in England, he settled in Australia and became captivated by its remote landscapes and pioneering communities. His works, characterized by dramatic color and simplified forms, evoke both beauty and desolation. He held major exhibitions in Australia and internationally, influencing generations of artists. During WWII, he served as an official war artist, documenting military life. His legacy endures in national galleries and through his impact on Australian cultural identity.

Oscar Brand began his career in the 1940s as a folk singer in New York City's Greenwich Village. In 1945 he launched the 'Folksong Festival' on WNYC, which became the longest-running radio program in history. He recorded over 100 albums featuring traditional and original folk songs. Brand also authored books of folk lyrics and stories, contributing to the preservation of folk heritage. He traveled extensively, collecting songs from around the world and introducing them to American audiences. His witty stage presence and deep knowledge of folk traditions made him a beloved figure in the folk revival. He continued performing and broadcasting well into his nineties, leaving an indelible mark on folk music.