February 10

Johann Melchior Molter was a distinguished violinist and composer based at the courts of Karlsruhe. He wrote a rich body of sacred and secular music, including solo concertos, symphonies, and sonatas. Molter's compositions are noted for their lyrical melodies and colorful orchestration. His six violin concertos are among his most frequently performed works today. He contributed to the development of German Baroque style with innovative use of woodwinds and brass. Molter's music remains a part of the standard Baroque repertoire.

Born in Dordrecht in 1795, Ary Scheffer settled in Paris and quickly became a central figure in the Romantic art scene. He gained acclaim for his lyrical paintings depicting scenes from literature, mythology, and religious narratives, such as his celebrated works inspired by Dante’s Divine Comedy. Scheffer served as a court painter to King Louis-Philippe, producing portraits and decorative paintings for the royal residence. He also taught at the École des Beaux-Arts and mentored a generation of younger artists. His studio became a popular gathering place for intellectuals, writers, and fellow painters during the July Monarchy. Scheffer’s works are noted for their refined brushwork, subtle color palettes, and emotional depth. Today, his paintings are held in major museums across Europe and North America, reflecting his enduring influence on 19th-century art.

Born in Rome in 1821, Roberto Bompiani trained at the Accademia di San Luca where he excelled in both painting and sculpture. He became known for his graceful Neoclassical works depicting scenes from Roman history, literature, and mythology. Bompiani’s frescoes adorn several palaces and churches in and around Rome, showcasing his skill in large-scale compositions and delicate color harmonies. As a sculptor, he created refined marble statues that reflected the aesthetic ideals of his era. His work earned him awards at national exhibitions, and he was later appointed a professor at the Accademia. Bompiani’s art bridged the transition between traditional Neoclassicism and emerging Realist tendencies in 19th-century Italian art. He continued to produce influential works until his death in 1908, leaving a legacy celebrated in Italian museums and public collections.

Born in Madrid in 1843 to Italian parents, Adelina Patti displayed extraordinary vocal talent from an early age and made her professional debut at age 16. She quickly became the most sought-after soprano of the Victorian era, performing leading roles in opera houses across Europe and North America. Patti’s voice was admired for its purity, agility, and rich tonal quality, earning her acclaim in roles such as Lucia in Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor and Violetta in Verdi’s La traviata. She commanded some of the highest fees of any performer of her day, amassing a considerable fortune. Patti also made some of the earliest commercial gramophone recordings, preserving her artistry for future generations. In retirement, she dedicated herself to philanthropy and teaching, passing on her techniques to young singers. Patti died in 1919, remembered as a pioneering diva whose artistic legacy continues to influence operatic performance.

Jimmy Durante was an iconic American entertainer whose career spanned vaudeville, radio, film, and television. Known for his distinctive gravelly voice, trademark nose, and humorous monologues, he became a household name in the 1920s and 1930s. Durante's signature songs like 'Inka Dinka Doo' showcased his talents as both a singer and pianist. He appeared in numerous films and even hosted his own television show, endearing audiences with his warmth and wit. His famous sign-off line, 'Good night, Mrs. Calabash, wherever you are,' remains part of pop culture lore. Durante's contributions to entertainment have inspired generations of comedians and musicians.

William Henry 'Chick' Webb (1905–1939) was a groundbreaking jazz drummer born in Baltimore. Despite a spinal ailment, he became a virtuoso known for his powerful, propulsive rhythms. As bandleader at the Savoy Ballroom in Harlem, he led one of the most popular dance bands of the 1930s. Webb discovered and promoted vocalist Ella Fitzgerald, helping launch her legendary career. His drumming style influenced generations of percussionists. Although he died young at 34, Webb's contributions to jazz and swing music remain enduring.

Born in Vancouver, Coulthard studied at the University of British Columbia and abroad. She composed over 160 works covering orchestral, chamber, and vocal music. Her lyrical style blended classical traditions with Canadian themes. As a longtime professor at UBC, she mentored generations of composers. Coulthard received numerous honors, including the Order of Canada. Her music continues to be performed by ensembles worldwide.

A child prodigy, Adler made his debut on the radio at age 11. He collaborated with composers like Ralph Vaughan Williams and performed concertos worldwide. Adler's mastery transformed the harmonica's image, earning him international acclaim. He appeared in Hollywood films before being blacklisted during the McCarthy era. After relocating to England, he continued performing and recording into his eighties. His pioneering work broadened the harmonica repertoire and inspired generations of musicians.

Leontyne Price was born in 1927 in Laurel, Mississippi, and studied at the Juilliard School in New York. She made her operatic debut in 1952 and quickly gained acclaim for her portrayals of Verdi and Puccini heroines. In 1961, she became the first African-American leading artist to be contracted at the Metropolitan Opera. Price's luminous voice and dignified stage presence broke racial barriers and inspired generations of singers. She received numerous honors, including Grammy Awards and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Even after retiring from the stage in the 1980s, she continued to give recitals and masterclasses, cementing her legacy in opera history.

Jerry Goldsmith was born in 1929 in Pasadena, California, and studied at the University of Southern California. He began his career composing for radio and television before scoring his first major film, 'Freud', in 1962. Goldsmith created iconic themes for films such as 'Planet of the Apes', 'Chinatown', and 'Star Trek: The Motion Picture'. His adventurous use of electronics, unusual instruments, and complex rhythms revolutionized film scoring. He won an Academy Award for 'The Omen' and received multiple Emmys and Grammys throughout his career. Goldsmith continued to compose until his death in 2004, leaving a rich legacy of memorable soundtracks.

Faramarz Payvar was an influential Iranian santur virtuoso and composer. He played a pivotal role in modernizing Persian classical music and expanding its reach internationally. Payvar founded the National Orchestra of Iran and arranged traditional pieces for larger ensembles. His performances and recordings brought the santur to concert halls across the globe. As a teacher and author, he documented techniques and repertoire that continue to guide musicians today. Payvar's contributions preserved Iran's musical heritage and inspired new generations of artists.

Theodore Antoniou was a Greek composer and conductor whose career spanned continents and genres. He served as conductor of the Contemporary Chamber Ensemble in New York and recorded extensively. Antoniou's compositions blended modern techniques with rich orchestral textures, reflecting his academic background at Yale and mentor Leon Kirchner. He taught at the University of Minnesota and later at Ionian University, shaping future generations of musicians. His works have been performed worldwide, earning acclaim for their dynamism and depth. Antoniou received numerous awards and fellowships, solidifying his legacy in contemporary classical music.