John Stafford Smith

Composer of the 'Star-Spangled Banner'

John Stafford Smith - Composer of the 'Star-Spangled Banner'
Born

March 30th, 1750
275 years ago

Died

1836
189 years ago — 86 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

An English organist and composer, contributed significantly to music in the late 18th century. Smith composed the tune of 'To Anacreon in Heaven', which later became the melody for the national anthem of the United States, 'The Star-Spangled Banner'. Education included time at the Chapel Royal and service as an organist at various churches. Engaged in crafting music that blended traditional themes with contemporary styles of the time, Smith's work left a lasting legacy in both English and American music. His compositions were performed in various venues, highlighting his role in the evolution of British musical culture during his lifetime.

Composed 'To Anacreon in Heaven'

Melody for 'The Star-Spangled Banner'

Other People Born on March 30th

Hans Ragnemalm

Swedish lawyer and judge specializing in law
Born
March 30th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 76 years old

An influential figure in the Swedish legal system, served as a judge and contributed significantly to legal practices and reforms. Ragnemalm held various roles in the judiciary and was involved in shaping legal frameworks. His work included participation in high-profile cases and engagement in judicial governance, focusing on the enhancement of legal standards in Sweden.

Continue Reading

Doug Wickenheiser

Ice Hockey Player and first overall pick
Born
March 30th, 1961 64 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1999 26 years ago — 37 years old

Played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the St. Louis Blues, Montreal Canadiens, and New York Rangers. Wickenheiser was selected first overall in the 1980 NHL Entry Draft by the St. Louis Blues. His career included stints in various teams in the NHL as well as in minor leagues like the American Hockey League (AHL). After retirement, he contributed to the sport through coaching and player development. Wickenheiser faced health challenges later in life, including a battle with cancer, which led to his death in 1999.

Continue Reading

Michal Březina

Czech figure skater, European medalist
Born
March 30th, 1990 35 years ago

Competed in figure skating at an international level, achieving notable success in various championships. Represented the Czech Republic at multiple World Championships and European Championships. Participated in the 2014 Winter Olympics held in Sochi. Won a bronze medal at the 2012 European Figure Skating Championships and consistently performed in senior Grand Prix events.

Continue Reading

Tommaso Traetta

Italian composer and educator
Born
March 30th, 1727 298 years ago
Died
1779 246 years ago — 52 years old

Born in 1727, a prominent Italian composer contributed significantly to the development of opera in the 18th century. Traetta studied in Venice and later moved to various cities in Italy, including Naples and Paris, where he composed operas that showcased intricate melodies and dramatic structures. His work blended elements of the traditional opera seria with new styles. Traetta also served as a music educator, influencing future generations of musicians. He held positions in various courts and institutions, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of classical music.

Continue Reading

Erwin Panofsky

Art historian and iconology pioneer
Born
March 30th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1968 57 years ago — 75 years old

Contributions included foundational work in art history and iconology. Focused on the analysis of art within its historical context, developing methods to interpret the symbolic content of artworks. Published influential texts, including 'Studies in Iconology' and 'Meaning in the Visual Arts', which shaped the discipline and provided frameworks still in use today. Actively taught at various institutions, establishing courses that influenced future generations of art historians.

Continue Reading

Norah Jones

Singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
March 30th, 1979 46 years ago

Born in 1979, this American artist gained prominence with the release of the debut album 'Come Away With Me' in 2002, which featured a blend of jazz, pop, and country influences. The album achieved commercial success and critical acclaim, earning several Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year. Subsequent albums also showcased the artist's musical versatility and distinctive voice, leading to a sustained career in the music industry. Collaborations with various musicians further enriched the discography, illustrating a commitment to artistic exploration.

Continue Reading