Gregor Piatigorsky

Cellist and influential music educator

Gregor Piatigorsky - Cellist and influential music educator
Born

April 17th, 1903
122 years ago

Died

August 6th, 1976
49 years ago — 73 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

Born in Ukraine, a prominent cellist and educator emerged as a significant figure in the classical music world. Studied under renowned musicians and later became a soloist with major orchestras, including the London Philharmonic and the New York Philharmonic. Piatigorsky held teaching positions at prestigious institutions like the University of California, Los Angeles, and the Curtis Institute of Music. His performances included notable concertos and chamber music, showcasing a remarkable technique and deep musicality. Contributed to the evolution of cello playing through teaching and repertoire expansion.

Performed with London Philharmonic Orchestra

Taught at Curtis Institute of Music

Premiered multiple works for cello

Other People Born on April 17th

Jenny Meadows

Middle-distance track runner; 800m specialist
Born
April 17th, 1981 44 years ago

Competed in middle-distance running events, primarily focusing on the 800 meters. Achieved significant success at the national and international levels, earning medals in various competitions. Represented Great Britain at the Olympics and World Championships. Notably finished third at the World Indoor Championships in 2010. Established a reputation in British athletics with numerous championship appearances and personal bests.

Continue Reading

Evangelos Averoff

Greek politician and Minister of Defense
Born
April 17th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1990 35 years ago — 79 years old

Averoff served as a prominent Greek politician and leader within the New Democracy party. His political career included multiple terms in the Greek parliament and the position of Minister for National Defence. He participated in various key initiatives and reforms within the defense sector during a critical period for Greece. As a historian, Averoff contributed to the understanding of Greek history through his writings and publications, reflecting his extensive knowledge and engagement with the past.

Continue Reading

Ian Jones

Rugby player, All Blacks lock
Born
April 17th, 1967 58 years ago

Played professional rugby in New Zealand, primarily as a lock. Represented the All Blacks, New Zealand's national rugby union team, from 1992 to 1998. Contributed to the team's success during a notable period in rugby history, including participation in multiple international test matches and tournaments. After retiring from rugby, continued to engage with the sport through various roles in coaching and commentary.

Continue Reading

Henry Erskine

Scottish politician and 10th Earl of Buchan
Born
April 17th, 1710 315 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1767 257 years ago — 57 years old

Born in 1710, this individual served as the 10th Earl of Buchan. Active in Scottish politics, he participated in notable parliamentary activities during the 18th century. The Earl advocated for various reforms and represented the interests of his constituents in the House of Lords. He held significant influence in local governance and engaged in cultural endeavors, contributing to the preservation of Scottish heritage. His tenure reflected the complexities of the political landscape during this period, particularly in relation to Scotland's position within Great Britain.

Continue Reading

Paul Nicholls

Jockey and Trainer with Champion Titles
Born
April 17th, 1962 63 years ago

Born in 1962, this English jockey and trainer achieved notable success in horse racing. Initially gaining prominence as a leading jockey, transitioned to training racehorses and established a successful training career. Operated a yard in Somerset, becoming recognized for training multiple high-profile racehorses. Achieved significant victories at major horse racing events.

Continue Reading

Gianni Raimondi

Italian lyric tenor, La Traviata
Born
April 17th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 85 years old

A celebrated lyric tenor, renowned for roles in various operas, particularly excelled in performances of La Traviata, Tosca, and Rigoletto. His career spanned several decades, during which he performed at prestigious venues worldwide, including La Scala in Milan and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. Alongside a rich solo career, he collaborated extensively with esteemed conductors and musicians, contributing to numerous recordings that showcased his vocal artistry. Teaching also played a significant role in his life, mentoring the next generation of opera singers. His contributions to the field of opera earned recognition and admiration.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 6th

Pope Paul VI

Pope and Vatican II proponent
Born
September 26th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1978 47 years ago — 80 years old

Served as the Pope from 1963 until 1978, leading the Catholic Church through significant changes. Guided the Second Vatican Council to completion, which aimed to modernize church practices and improve relations with other religions. Promoted peace and social justice during times of political tension and conflict. Implemented reforms within the Church, addressing issues of liturgy and ecumenism. Played a major role in international diplomacy and the promotion of human rights.

Continue Reading

Klaus Nomi

Singer and performer of avant-garde opera
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1983 42 years ago — 39 years old

A German singer-songwriter and actor gained recognition for a unique blend of opera and new wave music. Nomi's theatrical performances captivated audiences with extravagant costumes and a distinctive vocal style that fused classical music with pop elements. He developed a distinctive aesthetic that combined elements of science fiction and camp, appealing to the avant-garde scene in New York City during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Notable works include the self-titled debut album released in 1981 and electric performances at venues like Club 57. Nomi's work transcended traditional boundaries, influencing later generations of artists, especially in the realms of performance art and music.

Continue Reading

Jacopo Sannazaro

Italian poet and humanist of 'De Remedio Amoris'
Born
July 28th, 1458 567 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1530 495 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1458, Sannazaro produced significant works in poetry and humanism during the Italian Renaissance. 'De Remedio Amoris' is a notable work that reflects his exploration of love through a blend of classical and personal themes. In addition to poetry, Sannazaro contributed to the field of epigrams, showcasing his skill in concise and witty expression. His works often bridged classical literature and the emerging humanist values of the time. Sannazaro's influence extended to future poets, solidifying his position in the literary tradition of Italy.

Continue Reading

Preston Sturges

American director and screenwriter
Born
August 29th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1959 66 years ago — 60 years old

Contributed to the film industry as a director and screenwriter, achieved recognition for a unique style that blended comedy with social commentary. Worked in the 1940s, during which created several influential films that combined sharp wit with insightful observations on society and human nature. Sturges's films were known for their fast-paced dialogues and intricate narratives, attracting critical acclaim and a loyal following.

Continue Reading

Pope Hormisdas

Pope and leader of the Catholic Church
Died
August 6th, 523 1502 years ago — None years old

Pope Hormisdas served as the Pope from 514 to 523. His papacy is noted for the reconciliation of the Acacian schism, which had divided the Eastern and Western churches. Hormisdas addressed various theological disputes during his tenure, emphasizing the importance of the unity of the Church. He played a crucial role in solidifying the authority of the papacy. Under his leadership, there was a considerable effort to restore communication between the Roman and Byzantine churches.

Continue Reading

Ananda W.P. Guruge

Sri Lankan diplomat and scholar
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2014 11 years ago — 86 years old

Contributed significantly to Buddhist studies and diplomacy. Served as a prominent diplomat representing Sri Lanka in various international forums. Held the position of Sri Lanka's Ambassador to the United States. Played an important role in fostering cultural and educational exchanges between Sri Lanka and other nations. Authored several works on Buddhism and theology, and served as the Secretary-General of the World Fellowship of Buddhists.

Continue Reading