All the People

If you just want to see the people in our database you can browse them here.

Johann Sebastian Bach

Baroque composer and organist
Born
March 21st, 1685 341 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1750 276 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1685, a German composer and musician, he played a crucial role in the development of Western music. His works encompass various forms, including cantatas, concertos, and fugues, showcasing intricate counterpoint and harmony. Employed as a court organist and later as the director of music at St. Thomas Church in Leipzig, he contributed to the establishment of the cantata as a musical form. His significant compositions include 'The Well-Tempered Clavier', 'Brandenburg Concertos', and 'Mass in B minor', which remain staples in the classical repertoire. The influence of this composer's work on future generations has been profound.

Continue Reading

Johann Sebastian Paetsch

Cellist and orchestral performer
Born
April 11th, 1964 62 years ago

Born in 1964, this American cellist has performed with several prestigious orchestras. Extensive work includes performances with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, among others. Additionally, involvement in chamber music ensembles has showcased versatility and collaboration in various musical settings. Renowned for an exceptional skill level and contributions to classical music, complemented by solo performances and recordings that reflect technical proficiency and interpretative depth.

Continue Reading

Johann Spurzheim

Phrenologist, author of 'The Physiognomy'
Born
December 31st, 1776 249 years ago
Died
1832 194 years ago — 56 years old

A physician and phrenologist contributed significantly to the popularization of phrenology in the early 19th century. Emigrated to the United States, where he promoted the study of human behavior through the examination of the skull's shape. Published several works, with 'The Physiognomy' being one of the most notable. Engaged in numerous lectures and writings that aimed to connect physical structure to character traits.

Continue Reading

Johann Stamitz

Czech violinist and composer of symphonies
Born
June 18th, 1717 309 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1757 269 years ago — 39 years old

A violinist and composer from the Czech Republic contributed significantly to the development of the symphonic form. Worked with the Mannheim orchestra, leading advancements in orchestral music. His compositions helped establish the transition from the Baroque to the Classical style. Developed the Mannheim school of composition, which became influential across Europe. Created numerous symphonies, concertos, and chamber works.

Continue Reading

Johann Stobäus

German lute player and composer
Born
July 6th, 1580 446 years ago
Died
1646 380 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1580, contributed significantly to music during the late Renaissance. Composed for the lute and was influential in the development of early instrumental music. His works exhibited the intricate techniques and expressive capabilities of the lute. Stobäus's compositions were characterized by their melodic grace and rhythmic variety, reflecting the musical trends of his time. His contributions to the lute repertoire had lasting effects on the instrument's use in both solo and ensemble contexts.

Continue Reading

Johann Strauss I

Austrian composer of waltzes
Born
March 14th, 1804 222 years ago
Died
1849 177 years ago — 45 years old

Born in 1804, this composer and conductor specialized in the waltz genre, contributing significantly to its popularity in the 19th century. He founded the Vienna Waltz tradition and performed extensively in concert halls throughout Europe. His most celebrated works include 'Radetzky March' and 'The Blue Danube'. The composer excelled in creating festive music for the Viennese dance halls, influencing subsequent generations of composers.

Continue Reading

Johann Strauss II

Austrian composer of waltzes and operettas
Born
October 25th, 1825 201 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1899 127 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent composer of the 19th century, contributed significantly to the genre of light music, particularly waltzes and operettas. His compositions, characterized by melodic and rhythmic sophistication, earned widespread popularity. Worked as an orchestra leader, notably directing the Strauss Orchestra. Notable works include the waltz "The Blue Danube" and the operetta "Die Fledermaus." His music continues to be celebrated in concert halls and dance venues worldwide, particularly during New Year's celebrations.

Continue Reading

Johann Strauss III

Austrian composer and conductor
Born
1866 160 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1939 87 years ago — 73 years old

An Austrian violinist, composer, and conductor contributed significantly to the waltz and operetta genres. His works continued the legacy of the Strauss family, particularly the Viennese waltz tradition. Conducted orchestras in renowned venues and composed several noteworthy pieces that reflect the charm of 19th-century Viennese music. Despite challenges, maintained a focus on orchestral performance and composition throughout his career. The influences of earlier Strauss generations are evident in many of his works.

Continue Reading

Johann Stumpf

Swiss writer and chronicler of Zurich
Born
April 23rd, 1500 526 years ago
Died
1576 450 years ago — 76 years old

Born in Zurich, contributions to literature included significant works that documented the history and culture of the region. Worked as a schoolmaster and engaged in various writings that reflected the life and events of Zurich during the Reformation. Created detailed accounts of local customs, making them valuable historical resources. The significant work, 'Zürcher Chronik', captured the city's history from its origins to contemporary times, serving as an important reference for later historians.

Continue Reading

Johann Sylvan

German theologian; executed
Died
December 23rd, 1572 453 years ago — None years old

A theologian engaged in religious debates in sixteenth-century Germany. Became involved in the Reformation movement, advocating for doctrinal changes and challenging established church practices. His theological perspectives gained attention, leading to disputes with ecclesiastical authorities. Subsequently, faced persecution due to his beliefs, which culminated in an execution. However, the specific circumstances surrounding his execution remain partially obscured by historical records.

Continue Reading

Johann Tetzel

German preacher and indulgence seller
Born
1465 561 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1519 507 years ago — 54 years old

A preacher in the late 15th and early 16th centuries, this individual played a significant role in promoting the sale of indulgences as a means to raise funds for the construction of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. His activities, especially in Germany, sparked widespread controversy and contributed to the Protestant Reformation. The sale of indulgences became a focal point of criticism by reformers, notably Martin Luther, who challenged the practice in his Ninety-Five Theses. Tetzel's famous phrase, 'As soon as a coin in the coffer rings, the soul from purgatory springs,' epitomized his approach to selling indulgences.

Continue Reading

Johann Theile

German organist and composer of church music
Born
July 29th, 1646 380 years ago
Died
1724 302 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1646 in Germany, contributed to the development of the German Baroque music style. Served as an organist and a director of music in various church positions. Composed a significant body of choral and instrumental works, including cantatas and oratorios. Wrote educational texts on music theory, influencing the training of future musicians. His compositions are characterized by their rich harmonies and intricate counterpoint.

Continue Reading