Heitor Villa-Lobos
Brazilian composer and guitarist
A prominent Brazilian composer and guitarist, contributed significantly to the development of Brazilian classical music. Composed a vast array of works including orchestral pieces, chamber music, and choral music that integrated Brazilian folk elements. Studied under notable mentors and became a key figure in modern classical music in Brazil. Served as the director of the Department of Music of the Ministry of Education and Culture in Brazil. Internationally recognized for bringing Brazilian music to the global stage.
Composed the 'Bachianas Brasileiras' series
Created 'Choros' series
Introduced Brazilian folk music to classical compositions
Other People Born on March 5th
Nicole Pratt
Tennis player, coach, and sportscaster
Born
March 5th, 1973 53 years ago
Competed professionally in women's tennis, achieving a career-high singles ranking of World No. 38 in 2000. Played in all four Grand Slam tournaments and reached the fourth round of the Australian Open in 1997. Transitioned into coaching and sportscasting after retiring from professional play. Contributed to the development of young Australian tennis players through coaching roles.
Continue ReadingRichard Hickox
Conductor of classical music and opera
Born
March 5th, 1948 78 years ago
Died
2008 18 years ago — 60 years old
A prominent conductor and scholar, notable for contributions to classical music. Served as the principal conductor for several prestigious orchestras, including the BBC National Orchestra of Wales. Conducted world premieres and made significant recordings, especially focusing on British choral music. Involved with major opera houses, enhancing the performance quality and accessibility of classical works.
Continue ReadingPetar Borota
Serbian footballer and coach
Born
March 5th, 1952 74 years ago
Died
2010 16 years ago — 58 years old
A Serbian footballer and coach, played as a goalkeeper. Experienced a successful playing career primarily with Partizan Belgrade and later with several teams in Europe. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, guiding multiple clubs and contributing to player development. Participated in international competitions, representing the national team.
Continue ReadingBob Forward
Director, producer, screenwriter of 'Robotech'
Born
March 5th, 1958 68 years ago
A director, producer, and screenwriter contributed significantly to television animation. Developed and wrote for the animated series 'Robotech', which blended three Japanese series into a cohesive narrative. Engaged in projects that showcased innovative storytelling techniques in animation.
Continue ReadingAlex Smithies
English footballer and goalkeeper
Born
March 5th, 1990 36 years ago
A professional footballer associated with goalkeeping. Played for clubs such as Huddersfield Town and Queens Park Rangers. During a significant career, helped teams achieve promotion to higher leagues and contributed to important matches in various competitions, including the Football League Championship and FA Cup.
Continue ReadingChristoph Ernst Friedrich Weyse
Danish organist and symphonic composer
Born
March 5th, 1774 252 years ago
Died
1842 184 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1774, this individual was a prominent Danish organist and composer during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Weyse held the position of organist at the Holmens Church in Copenhagen. His composition style blended elements from both classical traditions and early Romanticism, producing works that showcased emotional depth and technical prowess. He composed a significant number of songs, piano pieces, and symphonies, contributing to the Danish music scene of the time. Many of his choral works reflect traditional Scandinavian themes and melodies. The individual’s contributions to Danish musical heritage are still recognized today.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 17th
Lea Gottlieb
Fashion designer, founded Gottex
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 94 years old
A Hungarian-Israeli fashion designer established the Gottex Company, which specialized in swimwear and beachwear. The brand gained recognition for its innovative designs and high-quality fabrics. The company became a staple in swimwear fashion, appealing to a global market. Gottlieb's work emphasized both fashion and functionality, contributing significantly to the evolution of swimwear design. The brand's collections were regularly showcased at fashion events, solidifying its reputation in the industry.
Continue ReadingJohn T. Downey
CIA agent and federal judge
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 84 years old
Served as a CIA agent during the Cold War, participating in covert operations in support of U.S. foreign policy. Following a career in intelligence, transitioned to a judicial role, serving as a federal judge. Contributed to the legal community and focused on upholding the law during tenure in the judiciary.
Continue ReadingEmperor Jomei of Japan
Japanese Emperor during the Asuka period
Died
November 17th, 641 1384 years ago — None years old
Reigned from 629 to 641 during the Asuka period. Succeeded Emperor Sushun. Under the reign, efforts were made to solidify the legal and administrative structure of Japan. Promoted Buddhism, contributing to its growth and establishment in the region. Vision included fostering connections with the Korean kingdoms.
Continue ReadingDavid Zeisberger
Czech-American missionary and clergyman
Born
April 11th, 1721 305 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1808 217 years ago — 87 years old
Czech-American clergyman and missionary served primarily among Native American communities in North America. Arrived in Pennsylvania in 1745 and joined the Moravian Church, where he worked to spread Christianity among Indigenous peoples. Established mission communities, achieving notable success among the Delaware and Mohican tribes. Played a crucial role in the development of the Moravian settlements in Ohio, particularly in the founding of the town of Schoenbrunn. His writings on the culture and experiences of Native Americans contributed to historical understanding of the time.
Continue ReadingJohn III of Sweden
King of Sweden, Protestant Reformer
Born
1537 489 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1592 433 years ago — 55 years old
Ruled as King of Sweden from 1568 until death in 1592. Advocated for the Protestant faith and sought to reform the church in Sweden. Worked towards unifying Sweden post-civil war and enhancing relations with neighboring countries, particularly with Poland. Attempted to balance power between the monarchy and nobility, leading to a complex political landscape. His reign included significant cultural developments, including support for arts and education.
Continue ReadingAbba Eban
Israeli diplomat and UN ambassador
Born
February 2nd, 1915 111 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2002 23 years ago — 87 years old
Born in South Africa, served as a diplomat and politician in Israel. Played a significant role in the establishment of Israel's foreign policy after its independence. Initial position was Israel's Ambassador to the United Nations, where diplomatic efforts included addressing international concerns regarding Israel. In later years, served as Israel's Minister of Foreign Affairs, engaging in key negotiations and representing Israeli interests globally.
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