Iván Fischer

Conductor and composer of classical music

Iván Fischer - Conductor and composer of classical music
Born

January 20th, 1951
74 years ago

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Hungary

Links & References

A prominent conductor and composer hailing from Hungary. Founded the Budapest Festival Orchestra, which gained international acclaim for its innovative programming and performances. Served as music director for several prestigious orchestras, including the Mahler Chamber Orchestra and the National Philharmonic of Hungary. Renowned for conducting major operas and symphonies across Europe and the United States. Actively involved in music education and community outreach initiatives.

Founded the Budapest Festival Orchestra

Served as music director of Mahler Chamber Orchestra

Conducted major operas across Europe

Other People Born on January 20th

Owen Hargreaves

Footballer and UEFA Champions League winner
Born
January 20th, 1981 44 years ago

This English footballer played as a midfielder. He began his career at Bayern Munich, winning multiple Bundesliga titles and the UEFA Champions League. After moving to England, he played for Manchester United and contributed to the team's victory in the Premier League and the Champions League. A notable aspect of his career was his representation of the English national team in international competitions.

Continue Reading

Natan Sharansky

Ukrainian-Israeli politician, Deputy PM
Born
January 20th, 1948 77 years ago

Born in Ukraine, became a prominent physicist before transitioning into politics. Arrested in the Soviet Union for his activism in advocating for Jewish emigration, spent nearly a decade in prison. After release, emigrated to Israel and entered political life. Served as the Deputy Prime Minister of Israel and held various ministerial roles. Played a significant role in Israeli politics and was an influential figure in the fight for human rights.

Continue Reading

Lead Belly

Folk/Blues Musician and Songwriter
Born
January 20th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
1949 76 years ago — 61 years old

An American folk and blues musician and songwriter, celebrated for skills on the twelve-string guitar and richly expressive voice. Born in 1888, gained recognition for original compositions and traditional folk songs. Frequently performed in prison and after release in New York City clubs. Collaborated with other musicians, contributing to the folk revival of the 1960s. The repertoire includes many traditional songs that were adapted and popularized by future artists.

Continue Reading

Derek Dougan

Footballer and journalist, Blackburn Rovers
Born
January 20th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
June 24th, 2007 18 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1938, a footballer played as a center-forward for several clubs including Wolverhampton Wanderers and Blackburn Rovers. Achieved significant success in the Football League, contributing to his teams with both goals and leadership on the field. Post-retirement, transitioned into journalism, providing insights on football and analysis in various media platforms. Had a notable career that spanned several decades, both as a player and as a pundit, establishing a respected position within the football community.

Continue Reading

DeForest Kelley

Actor, Dr. Leonard McCoy in Star Trek
Born
January 20th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1999 26 years ago — 79 years old

An American actor achieved recognition for the role of Dr. Leonard McCoy in the original Star Trek television series and subsequent films. Studied at the H. Leslie New-com Theatre in Hollywood and began a career in radio and television before landing prominent roles in Westerns. Joined the cast of Star Trek in 1966, portraying the ship's chief medical officer, contributing to the show's cultural impact and legacy. Continued to reprise the role in multiple television series and films until the late 1990s. Starred in the films Star Trek: The Motion Picture, Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, and others. Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1983.

Continue Reading

Fireball Roberts

Race car driver and NASCAR pioneer
Born
January 20th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 1964 61 years ago — 35 years old

An influential figure in early NASCAR, contributed to the popularity of stock car racing during the 1950s. Achieved significant success on the circuit, winning numerous races and becoming a top contender. In 1962, secured victory in the prestigious Daytona 500. Known for a driving style that combined speed and strategy, raced for teams like Fireball Racing. His career came to an untimely end due to injuries sustained in a crash during the 1964 season.

Continue Reading