Herbert Howells
English organist and composer
An English organist and composer specialized in choral music and organ compositions. Served as a Professor of Music at the University of Bristol and worked as an organist at various churches, including St John's College, Cambridge. Composed significant works in the English choral tradition, with a focus on sacred music. Contributed to the development of English music in the 20th century through both performance and composition.
Composed the choral work 'Magnificat'
Wrote 'Hymn to the Creator of Light'
Served as Director of Music at St John's College, Cambridge
Other People Born on October 17th
Ernie Els
Professional golfer and sportscaster
Born
October 17th, 1969 56 years ago
Played professional golf primarily on the PGA Tour and European Tour. Achieved four major championship titles, including two U.S. Opens and two Open Championships. Transitioned to a role in sportscasting after retirement from professional play, providing insights into the game. Known for a smooth swing and notable performances throughout a career that spanned several decades, with various tournament victories.
Continue ReadingNathalie Tauziat
French tennis player and Grand Slam semifinalist
Born
October 17th, 1967 58 years ago
A professional tennis player competed primarily in the 1990s. Achieved significant success on the WTA Tour, including reaching the semifinals of Wimbledon in 1998. Also represented France in various international competitions, including the Fed Cup. Ended career with a high singles ranking of World No. 16. After retirement, transitioned into coaching and tennis commentary.
Continue ReadingDanny Ferry
Basketball player and manager, Cleveland Cavaliers
Born
October 17th, 1966 59 years ago
Played basketball at Duke University, achieving All-American honors. Selected by the Los Angeles Clippers as the second overall pick in the 1989 NBA Draft, later traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Played for the Cavaliers from 1989 to 1996, contributing to the team's playoff appearances. After retiring as a player, transitioned into a front-office role, serving as general manager for the Cavaliers and the Atlanta Hawks. His management tenure involved assisting in the team building for successful playoff contending rosters.
Continue ReadingJ. C. MacKenzie
Canadian actor in 'The Assassination of Jesse James'
Born
October 17th, 1970 55 years ago
Born in Canada in 1970, an actor gained recognition for performances in film and television. Notably starred in the series 'The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford' and the acclaimed HBO series 'True Detective'. Participated in various other projects, showcasing versatility in dramatic roles across genres.
Continue ReadingAravinda de Silva
Sri Lankan cricketer and 1996 World Cup winner
Born
October 17th, 1965 60 years ago
Played international cricket for Sri Lanka from 1984 to 2002. Contributed significantly to the national team's success, particularly during the 1996 Cricket World Cup, where Sri Lanka won their first title. Gained recognition for exceptional batting skills and tactical acumen on the field. Excelled in various formats of the game, including Tests and One Day Internationals (ODIs). After retiring from professional cricket, took on coaching and administrative roles within the sport.
Continue ReadingChris Kirkpatrick
Singer-songwriter and dancer in NSYNC
Born
October 17th, 1971 54 years ago
Sang as a member of the boy band NSYNC, which gained significant popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The group released multiple successful albums, including 'No Strings Attached' and 'Celebrity', both of which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. Participated in various tours and sold millions of records worldwide, contributing to the pop music genre's evolution during that era. Also involved in other musical projects and entertainment ventures.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 23rd
Alice Herz-Sommer
Pianist and educator, Holocaust survivor
Born
November 26th, 1903 122 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 ReadingHenry Grey
1st Duke of Suffolk, English noble
Born
January 17th, 1517 508 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1554 471 years ago — 37 years old
Born in 1517, a prominent figure in the English court, ruled as the 1st Duke of Suffolk. Instrumental in the politics of the early Tudor period, held significant positions under King Edward VI. Sought to advance the cause of Protestantism. His daughter, Lady Jane Grey, was proclaimed queen for nine days, marking a notable but brief reign. Grey's political ambitions ultimately led to his downfall following the return of Mary I to the throne.
Continue ReadingTony Williams
Drummer, composer for Miles Davis
Born
April 5th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1997 28 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent drummer and composer in jazz music, contributed significantly to the genre during the 1960s. Joined the Miles Davis Quintet at a young age, revolutionizing jazz drumming through innovative techniques and approaches. Later founded the Tony Williams Lifetime, a pioneering rock-jazz fusion band, showcasing a blend of styles. Throughout a prolific career, collaborated with many notable artists across various genres, influencing countless musicians. Continued performing and recording until his death in 1997.
Continue ReadingMuhammad Shamsul Huq
Bangladeshi academic and politician
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 2006 19 years ago — 94 years old
An academic and politician contributed to Bangladesh's governance, serving as the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Held the position from 1973 to 1975, participating in the establishment of diplomatic relations post-independence. The involvement in education led to significant reforms in the academic sector, promoting higher learning and research. Active in the political landscape, played a role in shaping foreign policy during the formative years of the newly independent nation.
Continue ReadingL. S. Lowry
English painter with industrial scenes
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1976 49 years ago — 89 years old
An English painter focused on depicting industrial landscapes, urban scenes, and working-class life in the 20th century. Best recognized for works featuring matchstick men set against the backdrop of factories and mills. This style uniquely captured the essence of industrial towns in England, particularly in Lancashire. In a career spanning more than five decades, produced thousands of paintings and drawings. Gained considerable acclaim and continues to be a significant figure in British art history.
Continue ReadingStanisław Leszczyński
Polish king and duke of Lorraine
Born
October 20th, 1677 348 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.
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