Don Ellis
Trumpet player and composer of jazz

Born
July 25th, 1934
90 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1978
46 years ago — 44 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
A prominent trumpet player and composer in the jazz genre, contributed significantly to the fusion of jazz with other musical elements. Led the Don Ellis Orchestra, which gained recognition for its innovative arrangements and use of unusual time signatures. Composed and arranged music for films, including notable work for the motion picture "The French Connection." Experimented with different instruments and extended the boundaries of jazz music, influencing future generations of musicians.
Led the Don Ellis Orchestra
Composed for "The French Connection"
Pioneered the use of odd time signatures
Other People Born on July 25th
Ruth Peetoom
Served as a minister in the Dutch government and held various political roles. Contributed to discussions and policymaking in areas such as social welfare and community development. Actively participated in the Christian Democratic Appeal party, influencing party direction and public policy. Engaged with her constituents and promoted policies aimed at improving local communities.
Continue ReadingAnne Applebaum
A journalist and author, noted for contributions to historical and political commentary. Focused on Eastern European affairs and their implications on global politics. Served as a staff writer for The New Yorker and as a columnist for the Washington Post. Authored several books, with 'Gulag: A History' winning the Pulitzer Prize for Non-Fiction in 2004. Engaged in discussions around democracy, freedom, and authoritarianism.
Continue ReadingAgostino Steffani
A composer and priest in the Baroque period, contributed significantly to the development of opera and religious music. Held the position of chaplain at the ducal court in Hanover and served in various ecclesiastical roles in Italy and Germany. Composed operas, oratorios, and vocal music, showcasing a blend of Italian melodic style with German musical influences. His operas, particularly 'La pentola' and 'L'empio punito,' gained attention during his lifetime for their theatricality and sophisticated musical structure. Steffani was also known for his work in sacred music, including numerous motets and masses, which demonstrated his deep understanding of liturgical practices.
Continue ReadingKenny Thomas
Born in 1977, a basketball player entered the NBA in 1999 after being selected in the first round of the draft. Played for several teams, including the Sacramento Kings, where contributions were significant during the early 2000s. Transitioned to international play and continued competitive basketball beyond the NBA. Notably participated in various league matches and garnered attention for versatile playing style.
Continue ReadingFrancis Garnier
Born in 1839, a French captain and explorer, undertook significant exploratory missions in Southeast Asia. Led expeditions along the Mekong River, documenting geography and indigenous cultures. Participated in military actions in the Second French Empire's colonial campaigns. Contributed to cartography and geographic knowledge of the region, providing valuable insights during a period of colonial expansion. Met his end in 1873 during a military engagement in Tonkin, leaving a legacy as a prominent figure in French exploration.
Continue ReadingJohnny Hodges
An influential jazz saxophonist and clarinet player, recognized for a distinctive style and smooth tone, contributed significantly to the Duke Ellington Orchestra. Joined Ellington's band in 1928, becoming a central figure in its sound. Explored various musical genres and collaborated with notable musicians throughout his career. Recorded numerous albums as a leader and participated in iconic Ellington compositions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 17th
Jennifer Jones
An accomplished actress in American cinema, recognized for a career that spanned several decades. Featured in critically acclaimed films such as "The Song of Bernadette," which earned an Academy Award for Best Actress. Starred in major productions like "Duel in the Sun" and "Love is a Many-Splendored Thing." Established a prominent presence in Hollywood during the 1940s and 1950s, known for her exceptional acting ability and on-screen charisma. Received multiple nominations and awards throughout her career, solidifying her status as one of the leading actresses of her time.
Continue ReadingChris Henry
Played as a wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL) primarily for the Cincinnati Bengals. Drafted in the third round of the 2005 NFL Draft, made significant contributions during his time with the team. Best seasons included 2006 and 2009, where showcased talent in receptions and touchdown receptions. Known for his speed and catching ability, developed a reputation for being a deep threat in the Bengals' offense. Tragically passed away in 2009, leaving behind a legacy of athleticism on the field.
Continue ReadingLarry Sherry
A professional baseball player and coach, played as a relief pitcher in Major League Baseball. Made significant contributions to the Los Angeles Dodgers from 1959 to 1962. Played a pivotal role in the Dodgers' 1963 World Series victory, earning the World Series Most Valuable Player award. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, applying experience and knowledge of the game to help develop players.
Continue ReadingDaniel Inouye
Served as a U.S. Senator from Hawaii for nearly 50 years, representing the state in numerous important legislative matters. Participated in World War II as a member of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, the most decorated unit in American military history. Received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism during combat on April 21, 1945. Throughout Senate career, focused on issues such as civil rights, health care, and veteran affairs, significantly shaping policies affecting these areas.
Continue ReadingLizette Woodworth Reese
A significant American poet active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Her poetry was characterized by its lyrical quality and addressed themes of nature and humanity. Reese published several volumes of poetry, with 'A Quiet Road' being one of her most recognized works. In addition to poetry, she wrote essays and short stories, contributing to various publications of her time. Reese also served as an educator, imparting her knowledge and love for literature to her students, influencing the literary culture of her community.
Continue ReadingLinda Wong
Became a prominent adult film actress in the 1980s, playing significant roles in numerous adult films. Transitioned into production, influencing the adult film industry with innovative ideas. Her work contributed to the changing landscape of adult entertainment during that era.
Continue Reading