Charles-Louis Hanon
French pianist and composer of exercises
A French pianist and composer, contributions to piano training included a collection of exercises aimed at developing technical proficiency. The work consisted of 60 exercises designed to improve finger strength, agility, and overall piano technique. Published in 1873, this collection became a staple for piano students and teachers worldwide, influencing piano pedagogy. Hanon's exercises are often integrated into daily practice routines, marking a lasting legacy in the realm of musical education.
Published 'The Virtuoso Pianist' in 1873
Developed finger exercises for piano training
Other People Born on July 2nd
Frederick Fennell
Conductor and educator of band music
Born
July 2nd, 1914 111 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2004 21 years ago — 90 years old
An influential conductor and educator, contributed significantly to the band movement in the United States. Fennell served as the conductor for the Eastman Wind Ensemble and is credited with establishing the wind ensemble as a respected performing ensemble. He led several notable performances and recordings that helped to shape the repertoire for concert bands. His dedication to music education influenced generations of musicians and conductors. Fennell's pedagogical approach emphasized performance excellence and the importance of wind instruments in orchestral settings.
Continue ReadingAlexandros Panagoulis
Greek poet and politician
Born
July 2nd, 1939 86 years ago
Died
May 1st, 1976 49 years ago — 36 years old
Born in 1939, a notable poet and politician engaged in Greece's political landscape. Became involved in the resistance against the military junta during the 1960s, leading to imprisonment and torture. Wrote poetry that reflects personal suffering and social issues, with works that resonate with themes of freedom and justice. Participated in the Greek Parliament as a member representing the political party. Contributed to discussions around democracy and civil rights, advocating for a more just society.
Continue ReadingMutula Kilonzo
Kenyan lawyer and politician
Born
July 2nd, 1948 77 years ago
Died
April 27th, 2013 12 years ago — 64 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician, held the position of Minister of Education in Kenya. Worked tirelessly towards education reform and was instrumental in the introduction of policies aimed at improving educational standards in the country. Became a Member of Parliament for the Makueni constituency and championed various legislative initiatives. Played a significant role in legal advocacy within Kenya's political framework, contributing to the development of several key laws. Engaged in various community initiatives focused on local development and education.
Continue ReadingPaul Williams
Singer and choreographer for The Muppets
Born
July 2nd, 1939 86 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1973 52 years ago — 34 years old
A prominent figure in the music and entertainment industry, contributions include writing and performing hits for various artists and television shows. Williams co-wrote iconic songs such as "Rainbow Connection" and "Evergreen". As a choreographer, worked on projects for The Muppets, contributing to the show's distinctive style. Received an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Evergreen" from the film 'A Star Is Born'. Williams' career spans decades, during which involvement in television and film remains significant.
Continue ReadingPierre Cardin
Fashion designer and space-age styles
Born
July 2nd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2020 4 years ago — 98 years old
A significant figure in the fashion industry, this Italian-French fashion designer established a global brand that emphasized futuristic designs. Innovations included ready-to-wear collections that revolutionized fashion accessibility. The designer was among the first to license products and created a unique, recognizable aesthetic defined by geometric shapes and bold colors. The brand expanded into various markets, including furniture and fragrances, ensuring a lasting presence in the commercial world of fashion.
Continue ReadingAlec Douglas-Home
Politician and 66th UK Prime Minister
Born
July 2nd, 1903 122 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1995 30 years ago — 92 years old
Held the position of Prime Minister from 1963 to 1964. Served as a member of Parliament for over 30 years. Began political career in the House of Lords before transitioning to the House of Commons. Also served in various cabinet positions, including Foreign Secretary. After leaving office, remained active in politics and public service.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 19th
Danny Schechter
Documentary filmmaker and journalist
Born
June 27th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2015 10 years ago — 72 years old
A director, producer, and screenwriter focused on social issues, produced numerous documentaries throughout the career. Made films including 'In Debt We Trust' and 'WMD: Weapons of Mass Deception', which explored media, war, and financial crises. Committed to investigative journalism, covered significant global events and their media representations.
Continue ReadingM. A. Ayyangar
Indian politician, 2nd Speaker of Lok Sabha
Born
February 4th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1978 47 years ago — 87 years old
Served as a lawyer and prominent politician in India. Played a vital role in the legislative process as the second Speaker of the Lok Sabha from 1962 to 1967. Contributed to the formulation of various policies and laws during a significant period in Indian history. Actively participated in the Indian independence movement and served in various capacities within the Indian National Congress.
Continue ReadingNorman Haworth
Chemist, Nobel Prize in Chemistry winner
Born
March 19th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1950 75 years ago — 67 years old
An English chemist and academic contributed significantly to the study of carbohydrates. Extensive research on the structure and function of sugars and polysaccharides advanced the field of organic chemistry. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1937 for investigations of sugars and their derivatives. Served as a professor at the University of Birmingham, promoting research and education in chemistry. Authored numerous scientific papers and works that are foundational in carbohydrate chemistry.
Continue ReadingAndrew Wood
Singer-songwriter of Mother Love Bone
Born
January 8th, 1966 59 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1990 35 years ago — 24 years old
Born in 1966, this singer-songwriter played a pivotal role in the Seattle rock scene during the late 1980s. As the frontman of Mother Love Bone, the music blended glam rock influences with early grunge elements. The band's debut album, 'Apple,' received critical acclaim and showcased the artist's lyrical depth and vocal prowess. Tragically, the artist's life was cut short in 1990 due to a heroin overdose, but the work laid the groundwork for numerous artists in the grunge movement, including Pearl Jam and Soundgarden. Posthumously, the artist has been celebrated for contributions to rock music and remains an influential figure in the genre.
Continue ReadingPope Clement XI
Papacy during the War of Spanish Succession
Born
July 23rd, 1649 376 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1721 304 years ago — 71 years old
Served as pope from 1700 until death in 1721. Addressed various theological issues and papal authority while overseeing the church during significant European conflicts. Enhanced the Roman Catholic Church's role in European politics, particularly during the War of Spanish Succession. Promoted ecclesiastical reforms and supported missions in the Americas and Asia.
Continue ReadingClinton Hart Merriam
Zoologist and ornithologist; conducted studies
Born
December 5th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1942 83 years ago — 86 years old
An American zoologist, ornithologist, and entomologist made significant contributions to the understanding of North American wildlife. Played a pivotal role in establishing wildlife conservation efforts. Developed the concept of the 'life zone,' which categorizes environments based on elevation and climate. Served as the chief of the U.S. Biological Survey and contributed to the founding of the American Ornithologists' Union. Authored numerous scientific papers and books on bird behavior and ecology.
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