Artur Schnabel
Polish pianist with acclaimed recordings
Born in Poland, a distinguished pianist and composer emerged, contributing significantly to the classical music landscape. Studied under prominent teachers and performed extensively across Europe and the United States. Renowned for interpretations of Beethoven's piano sonatas and concertos, establishing a reputation for technical proficiency and emotional depth. As a composer, created works that merged traditional and contemporary styles. In 1935, founded a piano competition in memory of Beethoven, which nurtured future generations of pianists. His recordings of the complete Beethoven piano sonatas received critical acclaim and remain influential in the classical repertoire.
Pioneered recordings of Beethoven's works
Established the Beethoven piano competition
Other People Born on April 17th
Edmonde Charles-Roux
French journalist and author, wrote 'Oublier Piaf'
Born
April 17th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2016 10 years ago — 95 years old
A journalist and author with significant contributions to literature and cultural commentary. Worked for various publications including 'Le Figaro' and 'L'Express'. Authored several novels, with 'Oublier Piaf' gaining notable recognition. Served as a member of the Académie Goncourt, which awards prestigious literary prizes in France. Engaged in uncovering social issues and highlighting cultural stories through journalism and fiction.
Continue ReadingMalcolm Browne
Journalist and photographer for Vietnam War
Born
April 17th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 81 years old
Contributed significantly to journalism during the Vietnam War. Served as a war correspondent for the Associated Press, capturing critical moments that defined public perceptions of the conflict. Famous for the Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph of a Buddhist monk's self-immolation in 1963, this image highlighted the harsh realities and moral complexities of the war. Later worked for The New York Times, continuing to report on major global events.
Continue ReadingSolly Hemus
Baseball player and manager for Cardinals
Born
April 17th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 94 years old
Played as a shortstop in Major League Baseball, debuting in 1949 with the St. Louis Cardinals. Transitioned to coaching and later served as a manager for the Cardinals during the 1960s. His tenure included both playing and managing experiences, showcasing a strong presence in the league.
Continue ReadingRené Moawad
Lebanese politician and former president
Born
April 17th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1989 36 years ago — 64 years old
A prominent political figure, served as the 13th President of Lebanon from November to December 1989. Moawad's presidency was marked by efforts to restore stability and peace during the Lebanese Civil War. Before assuming the presidency, significant roles included being a member of the Lebanese Parliament and serving as the Minister of Youth and Sports. His tenure was cut short when he was assassinated shortly after taking office, leading to a period of national mourning and reflection on the ongoing conflicts in the country. Moawad is remembered for his commitment to national sovereignty and rebuilding Lebanon during tumultuous times.
Continue ReadingBoomer Esiason
American football quarterback & sportscaster
Born
April 17th, 1961 64 years ago
Played as a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL) for the Cincinnati Bengals, New York Jets, and Arizona Cardinals. Won the NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in 1988. Led the Bengals to Super Bowl XXIII in 1989. Transitioned to a successful career as a sports commentator and analyst after retiring from professional football.
Continue ReadingNeville McNamara
Air Marshal and WWII veteran
Born
April 17th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
May 7th, 2014 11 years ago — 91 years old
Served in the Royal Australian Air Force, playing a significant role during World War II. Contributed to air operations and command leadership in various capacities. After the war, advanced to the rank of Air Marshal, overseeing significant developments in the Australian Air Force. Held key positions that influenced aviation policy and air defense in Australia. Retrieved expertise in military strategy and aviation management throughout a lengthy career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 15th
John Cameron Swayze
American television journalist
Born
April 4th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1995 30 years ago — 89 years old
An American journalist served as a television news anchor and correspondent for NBC. Played a significant role in early television journalism, hosting the program 'Camel News Caravan,' which helped establish television news broadcasting. Covered important events and provided coverage during World War II. Worked in various capacities throughout the decades, contributing to news reporting during the expansion of television as a dominant medium.
Continue ReadingThrasyvoulos Tsakalotos
Greek general and military leader
Born
April 3rd, 1897 128 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1989 36 years ago — 92 years old
Born in 1897, played a significant role as a general during the Greek Civil War. Commanded the Greek army forces in various operations against communist insurgents. Contributed to military strategy and leadership in key battles. After the civil war, held prominent political positions, including Minister of National Defence, influencing military policy and governance in Greece.
Continue ReadingErnie Bushmiller
Cartoonist of Nancy comic strip
Born
August 23rd, 1905 120 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1982 43 years ago — 76 years old
Bushmiller created the comic strip Nancy, which debuted in 1938. The strip featured the adventures of a young girl named Nancy and her friend Sluggo. The simplicity of the characters and humor appealed to a wide audience. Bushmiller's distinctive art style and storytelling defined the strip's success for decades. Nancy became a staple in American newspapers, being published for over 70 years. Bushmiller's work influenced other cartoonists and contributed to the evolution of comic strips as an art form.
Continue ReadingRichard Bradshaw
Conductor with The Canadian Opera Company
Born
April 26th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
August 15th, 2007 18 years ago — 63 years old
Born in England, a conductor developed a prominent career in opera, particularly with The Canadian Opera Company. Served as the artistic director for 25 years, shaping the company's programming and elevating its profile in the arts community. Conducted numerous productions, including iconic operas like 'Carmen' and 'The Magic Flute.' Played a crucial role in the education and mentorship of young artists and musicians throughout tenure. Contributed to the growth of operatic performance in Canada and was recognized for excellence in the field.
Continue ReadingPeter Marshall
Game show host and entertainer
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
August 15th, 2024 1 years ago — 98 years old
A prominent game show host and entertainer, gained fame as the host of 'Hollywood Squares' from 1966 to 1984, showcasing a blend of humor and charm. Started career as a singer and performer in theater, appearing in various productions. Served as a television and radio personality, contributing to numerous entertainment programs throughout the decades.
Continue ReadingLicia Albanese
Soprano and actress with operatic acclaim
Born
July 22nd, 1909 116 years ago
Died
August 15th, 2014 11 years ago — 105 years old
Born in Italy, a prominent soprano achieved acclaim in opera and concert settings. Studied at the Conservatorio Giuseppe Verdi in Milan. Debuted at the Metropolitan Opera in 1940 and established a long and successful career, performing roles such as Mimi in "La Bohème" and Liu in "Turandot." Performed alongside renowned artists and participated in various orchestral performances. Also held a notable acting career in film and television. Advocated for the arts and contributed to educational efforts within vocal performance.
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