Edward Elgar

Composer of orchestral and choral works

Edward Elgar - Composer of orchestral and choral works
Born

June 2nd, 1857
168 years ago

Died

February 23rd, 1934
91 years ago — 76 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

A prominent English composer, contributions include works that have become staples of the orchestral and choral repertoire. Significant compositions include the 'Enigma Variations', which showcases a theme with numerous variations, and the 'Pomp and Circumstance Marches', specifically the first march, which gained vast popularity and is often played at graduation ceremonies. Elgar also composed the 'Violin Concerto in B minor', noted for its depth and lyrical quality. Alongside composition, involvement in education as an academic strengthened the field of music.

Composed 'Enigma Variations'

Created 'Pomp and Circumstance Marches'

Wrote 'Violin Concerto in B minor'

Other People Born on June 2nd

Vidar Johansen

Norwegian saxophonist with extensive work
Born
June 2nd, 1953 72 years ago

A renowned saxophonist, has contributed significantly to the Norwegian jazz scene. Worked with prominent musicians and participated in various festivals and recordings. Has released several albums showcasing both original compositions and interpretations of jazz standards. The style blends traditional jazz with contemporary elements, reflecting a deep understanding of the saxophone's versatility. Active in education, has also taught music, sharing knowledge of saxophone technique and jazz theory.

Continue Reading

Antônio Rodrigo Nogueira

Brazilian mixed martial artist and boxer
Born
June 2nd, 1976 49 years ago

A Brazilian mixed martial artist and boxer, achieved significant recognition in the sport of MMA. Competed in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and PRIDE Fighting Championships. His grappling skills earned respect in the mixed martial arts community, and he is celebrated for his achievements both as a fighter and as a prominent figure in Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

Continue Reading

Mike Ahern

Australian politician and Premier of Queensland
Born
June 2nd, 1942 83 years ago
Died
August 11th, 2023 2 years ago — 81 years old

Served as the 32nd Premier of Queensland from 1987 to 1989. Represented the National Party during his political career, contributing to various initiatives and policies in Queensland's government. His term focused on economic development and infrastructural growth in the region. Held other significant political roles, including member of the Queensland Legislative Assembly.

Continue Reading

Jan Lammers

Dutch race car driver and Le Mans winner
Born
June 2nd, 1956 69 years ago

Competed in Formula One and sports car racing, achieving recognition as a talented driver. Drove for several teams including Shadow, March, and Ensign in Formula One races during the late 1970s. Later transitioned to endurance racing, securing a win at the 1988 24 Hours of Le Mans with the Jaguar team. Continued to race in various categories, contributing to the development of motorsport in the Netherlands.

Continue Reading

Irène Schweizer

Swiss jazz pianist and composer
Born
June 2nd, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2024 1 years ago — 83 years old

Born in Switzerland, a prominent jazz pianist and composer specializing in free jazz. The musical career began in the 1960s, collaborating with various notable jazz musicians. Established a unique style that combined traditional jazz elements with avant-garde influences. Performed at numerous international festivals and gained recognition for innovative interpretations and compositions.

Continue Reading

Thomas Hardy

English novelist and poet
Born
June 2nd, 1840 185 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1928 97 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent English novelist and poet, produced significant literary works in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Explored themes of social constraint, rural life, and human despondency through intricate narrative and character development. Notable works include novels such as 'Tess of the d'Urbervilles' and 'Jude the Obscure'. Poetry often reflected a melancholic outlook on life and nature, with collections such as 'Moments of Vision' showcasing lyrical prowess. Hardy's departure from Victorian traditions and incorporation of naturalism influenced subsequent literary movements.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 23rd

Tomoyuki Yamashita

Japanese general during World War II
Born
November 8th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1946 79 years ago — 60 years old

Served as a general in the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. Commanded Japanese forces in the Malayan Campaign and the Battle of Singapore, leading to the capture of the British stronghold in 1942. Led troops in various campaigns throughout the Pacific, demonstrating tactical skills in land warfare. Post-war, faced trial for war crimes and was executed in 1946.

Continue Reading

Stanisław Leszczyński

Polish king and duke of Lorraine
Born
October 20th, 1677 347 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1766 259 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1677, served as King of Poland from 1704 to 1709 and again in 1733. His reign was marked by political strife and foreign intervention. After being deposed, he spent years in exile before becoming Duke of Lorraine in 1737. Led efforts to modernize the duchy, enhancing its cultural and economic stature. Died in 1766 in Nancy, France.

Continue Reading

Alice Herz-Sommer

Pianist and educator, Holocaust survivor
Born
November 26th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 2014 11 years ago — 110 years old

Born in Prague, this individual was a talented pianist and regarded as one of the last surviving Holocaust survivors. During World War II, this person was imprisoned in a concentration camp but survived by playing music, which became a source of hope and resilience. After the war, a dedicated career in music pedagogy and performance followed. This person relocated to London, where contributions to music education took shape. Through a blend of performance and teaching, significant efforts were made to share the power of music with future generations. Recognition of life's challenges and the ability to find joy in music characterized this individual's outlook.

Continue Reading

Roger Hilsman

American soldier and politician
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 2014 11 years ago — 95 years old

Served as a United States Army officer during World War II. Held various academic positions in political science and international relations, contributing to the literature in those fields. Worked within the U.S. government, including a role in the State Department during the Vietnam War era. Advocated for peace and responsible policy measures in contentious geopolitical contexts.

Continue Reading

Paul Claudel

French poet and playwright
Born
August 6th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1955 70 years ago — 86 years old

A significant figure in French literature, contributed to both poetry and drama. Claudel's works often explored themes of faith and existentialism. His major plays, including 'Têtred'un fleuve' and 'L'Annonce faite à Marie', highlighted the conflict between belief and doubt. Claudel also produced a number of celebrated poems that reflected his Catholic beliefs and personal experiences. Throughout his career, he held various positions in the French diplomatic service, including serving as the French ambassador to the United States.

Continue Reading

Pope Eugene IV

Pope and Church leader during the 15th century
Born
1383 642 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1447 578 years ago — 64 years old

Served as Pope from 1431 to 1447. Focused on Church reform and addressing issues of the time such as the schism in the Catholic Church. Convened the Council of Florence, which aimed to unify Eastern and Western Christianity. Sought to improve relations with the Orthodox Church and was involved in various diplomatic missions throughout Europe. Contributed to the development of the Church's internal policies and governance.

Continue Reading