Alan Hovhaness

Composer of symphonies and choral works

Alan Hovhaness - Composer of symphonies and choral works
Born

March 8th, 1911
114 years ago

Died

June 21st, 2000
25 years ago — 89 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

Born in 1911, this Armenian-American composer produced a significant body of work that ranges from symphonies to choral compositions. Trained at the New England Conservatory of Music, focused on incorporating Eastern and Western musical elements. Achieved prominence with the release of over 60 symphonies and many chamber works. Aspiring to represent spiritual themes through music, collaborated with various performers throughout his career. The music shows influences from his Armenian heritage, reflecting experiences and cultural motifs within compositions. Continued to create music until his passing in 2000.

Composed over 60 symphonies

Wrote choral works including 'And God Said'

Incorporated Armenian musical themes

Other People Born on March 8th

André Michaux

French botanist and explorer of flora
Born
March 8th, 1746 279 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1802 222 years ago — 56 years old

A prominent botanist and explorer, significant contributions to the study of North American flora occurred during a series of botanical expeditions in the late 18th century. Worked extensively in regions that are now the United States, documenting various plant species and their habitats. Conducted research in the Ohio Valley, the Southern states, and the Appalachian Mountains. Established a botanical garden in Paris which served as a center for plant study and exchange. His writings include valuable observations on plant cultivation and natural history.

Continue Reading

Andrea Parker

American Actress in TV and Film
Born
March 8th, 1970 55 years ago

Born in 1970, an actress achieved recognition through roles in television and film. Gained attention for portraying character roles that often included strong personalities and compelling storylines. Played significant parts in series such as 'The Pretender' and 'Less Than Perfect'. Also appeared in films like 'The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause'. Established a career in the entertainment industry marked by notable performances.

Continue Reading

Alvan Clark

Astronomer and optician who constructed telescopes
Born
March 8th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
1887 138 years ago — 83 years old

Contributions to astronomy included the construction of some of the largest telescopes of the 19th century. Worked extensively on improving refracting telescopes, especially the design of the objective lens. Partnered with his son to establish a successful telescope-making business. Involved in the discovery of the fourth moon of Mars in 1877.

Continue Reading

Greg Barker

English politician and Baron
Born
March 8th, 1966 59 years ago

Baron Barker of Battle served as a member of the House of Lords. Contributed to various parliamentary committees and played a significant role in shaping policies related to energy and environment while serving as Minister of State for Energy. Engaged in discussions regarding climate change and sustainable energy solutions. Had a notable career in politics, representing the interests of constituents in the context of national policy-making.

Continue Reading

Francisco Rabal

Spanish actor, director, and screenwriter
Born
March 8th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2001 24 years ago — 75 years old

An actor, director, and screenwriter from Spain, contributed significantly to both Spanish and international cinema. Rabal appeared in over 100 films and worked with notable directors like Luis Buñuel and Carlos Saura. His filmography includes prominent works such as 'Viridiana', 'The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie', and 'The Spirit of the Beehive'. Rabal also ventured into directing and screenwriting, showcasing versatility in cinema. Throughout a prolific career, he received numerous accolades, including the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival.

Continue Reading

Sasha Vujačić

Basketball Player, NBA Champion
Born
March 8th, 1984 41 years ago

Played professional basketball primarily in the NBA, achieving significant success with the Los Angeles Lakers. His time with the Lakers included winning two NBA championships. Known for participation in international competitions, represented Slovenia in various tournaments, contributing to the growth of basketball in the country.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on June 21st

Gunther Schuller

Horn player and composer of opera
Born
November 22nd, 1925 99 years ago
Died
June 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent horn player, composer, and conductor, focused on the development of American classical music. Collaborated with acclaimed artists and ensembles, contributing to both jazz and classical genres. Served as the music director of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and the Boston University Tanglewood Institute. Notable for the creation of operas and orchestral works that integrate diverse musical influences.

Continue Reading

James Chaney

Civil Rights Activist and Freedom Rider
Born
May 30th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1964 61 years ago — 21 years old

An American civil rights activist contributed to the fight against racial segregation and discrimination in the United States during the 1960s. Born in 1943, involvement in the civil rights movement began at a young age, participating in Freedom Rides and voter registration drives. In 1964, Chaney traveled to Mississippi to support the voter registration campaign as part of the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE). His disappearance and murder during this time highlighted the risks faced by civil rights activists and garnered national attention, serving as a catalyst for further activism and reform.

Continue Reading

Frances Adeline Seward

American political spouse and activist
Born
1824 201 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1865 160 years ago — 41 years old

Wife of William H. Seward, served as a political partner throughout his career. Actively supported Seward's work as Secretary of State under President Abraham Lincoln, particularly during the Civil War. Engaged in social and political advocacy, including issues related to abolition. Managed the family's estate in New York while contributing to public discourse through her letters and writings. Remained a significant figure in her own right, influencing her husband's policies through her correspondence and guidance.

Continue Reading

Bob Evans

Professional wrestler and trainer
Born
September 3rd, 1972 53 years ago
Died
June 21st, 2007 18 years ago — 34 years old

Entered the wrestling industry in the early 1990s, competing in various promotions. Gained recognition in World Wrestling Federation (WWF) during the late 1990s. Transitioned to a training role, mentoring future stars in the wrestling community. Developed a reputation for enhancing the skills of many young wrestlers. Continued to influence the wrestling scene with training academies focused on developing talent.

Continue Reading

Antonio López de Santa Anna

Mexican General, 8th President of Mexico
Born
February 21st, 1794 231 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1876 149 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent political and military figure in Mexico during the 19th century. Served multiple non-consecutive terms as President of Mexico. Led Mexican troops in the Texas Revolution and was a key figure in the Battle of the Alamo. Surrendered to Texian forces in 1836 and was eventually captured, leading to the independence of Texas. Returned to power in the Mexican government numerous times amid political instability.

Continue Reading

Ali al-Hadi

Imam of Shia Islam, influential scholar
Born
September 8th, 828 1197 years ago
Died
June 21st, 868 1157 years ago — 39 years old

Tenth Imam in Shia Islam, contributed to religious thought and teachings. Born in 829, held significant influence during the Abbasid Caliphate. Oversaw a period marked by intellectual engagement and spiritual leadership. Regarded as an important figure within Shia Islam, despite facing political challenges. Died in 868 under circumstances believed to involve political repression, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire Shia Muslims.

Continue Reading