Giovanni Battista Viotti

Violinist and composer, founder of violin school

Giovanni Battista Viotti - Violinist and composer, founder of violin school
Born

May 12th, 1755
270 years ago

Died

1824
201 years ago — 69 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Italy

Links & References

Born in Italy, a prominent violinist and composer contributed significantly to the development of violin techniques in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Established a successful career in London, and founded a distinguished school of violin playing that laid the groundwork for future generations of violinists. Composed numerous violin concertos that set standards for the repertoire, often noted for their lyrical style. Later in life, took on various directorial roles in musical institutions and remained influential in the musical community throughout his life.

Composed 29 violin concertos

Founded a violin school in London

Other People Born on May 12th

Emperor Shōkō of Japan

Japanese Emperor during the Muromachi period
Born
May 12th, 1401 624 years ago
Died
1428 597 years ago — 27 years old

Ascended to the throne in 1412 and ruled during a turbulent period marked by the onset of the Sengoku period. His reign witnessed the challenges of power struggles between various clans within Japan. The central authority weakened as regional daimyōs gained power, diminishing the imperial influence. Played a symbolic role as the head of state despite limited political power. The era was characterized by the emergence of new cultural practices and the continuation of the feudal system. His reign lasted until 1428 when he abdicated, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with the political complexities of the time.

Continue Reading

Roy Salvadori

Racing driver with Le Mans successes
Born
May 12th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2012 13 years ago — 90 years old

Active as a racing driver from the 1950s, participation included Formula One and sports car racing. Achieved notable success at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, finishing second overall in 1950 driving for Aston Martin. Competed in various other significant races across Europe and served as a manager for racing teams later in his career. His experience in the sport contributed to advancements in racing strategies and team management.

Continue Reading

Burt Bacharach

Singer-songwriter and composer of film scores
Born
May 12th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent figure in the music industry, this artist gained recognition for composing numerous hit songs and film scores. Collaborations with lyricist Hal David resulted in iconic tracks such as 'Raindrops Keep Fallin' on My Head' and 'I'll Never Fall in Love Again.' The artist also received critical acclaim for creating the soundtrack for the film 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.' With a unique style incorporating elements of jazz, pop, and classical music, contributed to a significant body of work across several decades. In addition to songwriting, involved in producing and arranging music, leading to a distinguished career that influenced many contemporary artists.

Continue Reading

Upendrakishore Ray Chowdhury

Bengali writer and technologist.
Born
May 12th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
1915 110 years ago — 52 years old

Contributed to Bengali literature through children's stories, essays, and translations. Authored the acclaimed children's magazine 'Sandesh', influencing young readers in Bengal. Engaged in painting and music as a violin player and composer. Developed various technological innovations and ran a successful printing press. Advocated for quality children's literature and education in Bengal during the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Gabriel Fauré

French composer and pianist
Born
May 12th, 1845 180 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1924 100 years ago — 79 years old

A notable figure in French music, contributions include compositions that blend classical forms with French sensibility. Served as director of theParis Conservatoire, influencing future generations of musicians. His music exhibits smooth melodies and innovative harmonic structures, prominent in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Continue Reading

Helene Weigel

Austrian-German actress in theatre
Born
May 12th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1971 54 years ago — 71 years old

One of the prominent figures in German theater, Weigel gained recognition for her extensive work in both acting and directing. Collaborating with renowned playwright Bertolt Brecht, she contributed to the development of the Berliner Ensemble, where she played key roles in several of Brecht's plays. Her performances brought intellectual depth and emotional resonance to the stage. Throughout her career, Weigel embraced avant-garde theatrical techniques and focused on social issues in her work, influencing the landscape of modern theater. In addition to her theatrical endeavors, her film appearances also added to her legacy, with notable works during the German cinema's post-war period.

Continue Reading