March 08

Born in Weimar, the second surviving son of Johann Sebastian Bach, Carl Philipp Emanuel showed early musical talent. He served as harpsichordist at the court of Frederick the Great in Berlin, influencing the development of keyboard music. His expressive 'Empfindsamer Stil' introduced heightened emotional depth into the Classical style. Bach composed over 150 keyboard sonatas, symphonies, chamber works, and choral music throughout his career. As music director of Hamburg's churches, he trained generations of musicians and published the influential 'Versuch über die wahre Art das Clavier zu spielen'. He died in 1788, remembered as one of the most important transitional composers between the Baroque and Classical eras.

Colin Campbell Cooper was a celebrated American artist known for his Impressionist cityscapes. He studied in Paris and exhibited at the Paris Salon before returning to the United States. Cooper captured the grandeur of skylines in New York, Philadelphia, and Chicago. He taught at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and influenced a generation of painters. His work is noted for its vibrant color palette and dynamic architectural compositions. Cooper’s paintings remain sought after by collectors and museums worldwide.

Frederic W. Goudy was one of America’s most prolific typeface designers, creating over 120 fonts. He founded the Village Press to produce finely printed books showcasing his type designs. Goudy Old Style, released in 1915, became one of the most popular serif fonts of the 20th century. He authored 'Elements of Lettering', a foundational text on typography and design principles. Goudy’s work influenced graphic design and book publishing around the world. His legacy lives on in modern digital revivals of his timeless typefaces.

Born in Somerville, Massachusetts in 1911, Alan Hovhaness was inspired by his Armenian heritage and nature. He studied composition in London and later in the United States, developing a unique musical voice. Over his career, he composed more than 500 works, including symphonies, chamber pieces, and choral works. Notable compositions include “Symphony No. 22 (City of Light)” and the evocative “And God Created Great Whales.” His fusion of modal melodies, sacred themes, and innovative orchestration influenced generations of composers.

Shigeru Mizuki was born in 1922 in Osaka, Japan, and served in World War II, where he lost an arm. After the war, he turned to manga, publishing his first works in the 1950s. Mizuki achieved fame with 'GeGeGe no Kitaro', a series that introduced generations to traditional Japanese spirits known as yokai. His blend of folklore, humor, and social commentary resonated with readers, and his creations were adapted into successful anime series and films. Beyond entertainment, Mizuki authored historical and autobiographical works, earning numerous awards for his contributions to literature and art. His impact on Japanese pop culture endured until his death in 2015.

Anthony Caro was born in 1924 in New Malden, England, and initially studied engineering before pursuing sculpture at the Royal Academy Schools. He worked as an assistant to Henry Moore, absorbing modernist ideas that he transformed into his own style. In the 1960s, Caro introduced large-scale abstract metal sculptures displayed directly on the ground, challenging classical pedestal-based presentation. His works, characterized by vibrant color and geometric forms, influenced generations of artists and helped define the British sculpture scene. Caro lectured and taught at St. Martin's School of Art, shaping emerging talent. Knighted in 1987, he left a lasting legacy when he passed away in 2013.

Gerald Potterton was an English-Canadian animator, director, and producer whose career spanned over six decades. He worked with the National Film Board of Canada and contributed animation to The Beatles' 'Yellow Submarine'. Potterton co-directed the landmark 1981 film 'Heavy Metal', blending adult animation with rock music. His other notable works include the animated adaptations of 'The Selfish Giant' and 'Christmas Cracker'. He received multiple awards and nominations for his innovative contributions to animation before his passing in 2022.

George Coleman is an American jazz saxophonist, composer, and bandleader whose career began in the late 1950s. He played alongside jazz legends such as Miles Davis, B.B. King, and Herbie Hancock, contributing to landmark recordings. Coleman released several acclaimed albums as a leader on labels like Blue Note and Muse Records. His fluid improvisational style and deep understanding of harmony have made him a highly sought-after collaborator. In 2015, he was honored as a NEA Jazz Master, the highest award in jazz in the United States.

Richard Fariña was an American folk musician and author central to the 1960s counterculture movement. He recorded influential folk albums and collaborated with his wife Mimi Fariña, producing enduring songs like 'Pack Up Your Sorrows'. His only novel, 'Been Down So Long It Looks Like Up to Me', became a cult classic for its spirited portrayal of bohemian life. Fariña's sharp wit and literary style bridged the worlds of literature and folk music. He died at age 29 in a motorcycle accident, leaving a lasting impact on both music and literature.

Robert Tear was a celebrated Welsh tenor and conductor renowned for his interpretations of English song repertoire. He was closely associated with composer Benjamin Britten, premiering roles in several of his operas. Tear sang at major opera houses including the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, and Glyndebourne. In addition to his singing career, he served as a conductor, leading performances with leading orchestras. He made numerous acclaimed recordings of lieder and oratorio, earning international recognition. Tear was also a respected educator, teaching voice at institutions such as the Royal Academy of Music.

Dick Allen was an American baseball player known for his powerful hitting and dynamic play. He won the National League Most Valuable Player award in 1972 and hit over 350 career home runs. Allen's aggressive style and versatility made him one of the most feared sluggers of his era. Off the field, he pursued his passion for music as a gospel tenor, recording several singles. After retiring from baseball, he remained active in community and charitable events, blending his sports and musical interests. His unique dual career as an athlete and singer continues to inspire fans across sports and music.

Lynn Redgrave was an English-American actress and singer, part of the renowned Redgrave acting dynasty. She received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her breakthrough role in 'Georgy Girl'. Redgrave won a Tony Award for her performance in the Broadway play 'Saint Joan' in 1967. She released albums showcasing her vocal talent and toured internationally as a singer. In her later career, she appeared in films, television, and onstage, earning praise for her versatility. Her advocacy for women's health and candid discussions of personal challenges added to her legacy.