Krzysztof Penderecki
Composer known for 'The Passion According to St. Luke'
A prominent Polish composer and conductor, created significant works that span various styles, including avant-garde, neo-Romanticism, and contemporary classical music. 'Threnody to the Victims of Hiroshima', composed in 1960, showcased innovative string techniques and gained international acclaim. 'The Passion According to St. Luke', composed in 1965, became one of the central works in liturgical music. Served as a professor at various institutions and contributed to music education throughout his career.
Composed 'Threnody to the Victims of Hiroshima'
Wrote 'The Passion According to St. Luke'
Conducted major orchestras worldwide
Other People Born on November 23rd
Gwynne Shotwell
Businesswoman, SpaceX President
Born
November 23rd, 1963 62 years ago
A leading businesswoman, served as President and Chief Operating Officer of a private aerospace manufacturer and space transport services company. Oversaw the company's growth and operations, contributing to its status as a key player in the space industry. Played a significant role in the development of the Falcon 1, Falcon 9, and Falcon Heavy launch vehicles. Directed numerous successful supply missions to the International Space Station under NASA's Commercial Resupply Services program.
Continue ReadingKarl Gebhardt
German physician and war criminal
Born
November 23rd, 1897 128 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1948 77 years ago — 50 years old
Served as an SS physician during World War II, involved in medical experiments on concentration camp inmates. Participated in the infamous 'Doctors' Trial' after the war, facing prosecution for war crimes due to unethical treatment of prisoners. Held positions within the Nazi regime's medical institutions, contributing to the inhumane practices that defined the period.
Continue ReadingTsunenohana Kan'ichi
Sumo wrestler, 31st Yokozuna
Born
November 23rd, 1896 129 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1960 65 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1896, this individual became a prominent figure in professional sumo wrestling. Achieving the rank of Yokozuna, the highest title in the sport, showcased exceptional skill and determination. The career included significant competitions and victories, reinforcing a legacy within the sumo wrestling community. Training began at a young age, and a rapid ascent through ranks led to a dominant presence in the 1920s. The distinguished journey in sumo wrestling involved not only championships but also efforts in promoting the sport during a transformative period in Japan.
Continue ReadingSaku Koivu
Ice hockey player and captain of Finland
Born
November 23rd, 1974 51 years ago
Born in 1974, this individual played in the NHL for the Montreal Canadiens and the Anaheim Ducks. He was the captain of the Canadiens and the Finnish national team. Achievements include a gold medal at the 1995 IIHF World Championships and a silver medal at the 1994 Winter Olympics. This player is recognized for his contributions to ice hockey in Finland and his leadership on and off the ice.
Continue ReadingHarpo Marx
Comedian and musician, member of the Marx Brothers
Born
November 23rd, 1888 137 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1964 61 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent comedian and musician, contributed to the American entertainment landscape through silent antics and virtuoso harp performances. Gained fame as a member of the Marx Brothers, a comedy troupe that revolutionized film and stage humor during the early 20th century. Starred in classic films such as 'Duck Soup' and 'A Night at the Opera'. Often portrayed a silent character, utilizing slapstick comedy and expressive facial gestures to engage audiences. Excelled in comedy, music, and theatrics, showcasing raw comedic talent and musical prowess.
Continue ReadingNicolas Bacri
French composer with orchestral works
Born
November 23rd, 1961 64 years ago
A prominent French composer, contributions include a variety of orchestral and chamber works. Studied at the Paris Conservatory and developed a distinct style that merges traditional forms with modern sensibilities. Composed multiple symphonies, concertos, and chamber music pieces, gaining recognition in contemporary classical circles. Collaborated with various orchestras and ensembles, leading to numerous performances worldwide. Served as a composition teacher, influencing a new generation of composers.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 29th
Reginald Gray
Irish-French painter, Royal Hibernian Academy member
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2013 12 years ago — 83 years old
A painter with significant contributions to the art scene in Ireland and France. Studied at the National College of Art and Design in Dublin, later gaining recognition for his exhibitions. His work combined influences from both Irish and French styles, reflecting landscapes and figures. Participated in numerous group shows and was an active member of the Royal Hibernian Academy, contributing to the promotion of contemporary Irish art. His dedication to exploring themes of identity and place through visual storytelling resonated within artistic communities.
Continue ReadingAlexander Obolensky
Rugby player and WWII pilot
Born
February 17th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1940 85 years ago — 24 years old
Played rugby for England and made a significant contribution during World War II as a pilot. Achieved recognition for his performance in rugby union matches, notably in the 1939 match against Wales, where he scored two tries. His athletic career was cut short by the war, during which he served in the Royal Air Force and lost his life during a mission in 1943.
Continue ReadingAlexei Abrikosov
Physicist, 2003 Nobel laureate in Physics
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2017 8 years ago — 89 years old
A physicist contributed significantly to the theory of superconductivity. Developed the Ginzburg-Landau theory in collaboration with Vitaly Ginzburg, which provided a theoretical framework for understanding superconductors. His work led to the discovery of the Abrikosov vortex lattice, which describes the behavior of magnetic fields in type-II superconductors. Awards include the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2003 for contributions to the development of the theory of superconductivity. Held a prestigious position at Argonne National Laboratory and published extensively in the field of condensed matter physics.
Continue ReadingIakovos Kambanellis
Greek playwright and poet
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2011 14 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent figure in Greek literature, engaged in writing plays, poetry, and screenplays. Works often reflected themes of identity and the human condition, with notable contributions to Greek theatre. Kambanellis gained recognition for plays such as 'The Queen' and 'The Last Act', which showcased his ability to weave complex narratives. His work often drew inspiration from personal experiences, particularly his time as a prisoner during World War II, influencing the depth and relevance of his writings.
Continue ReadingAgnès Varda
French film director, 'Cléo from 5 to 7'
Born
May 30th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2019 6 years ago — 90 years old
A notable figure in the French New Wave, directed numerous influential films throughout a career spanning over six decades. Created a unique style that emphasized personal storytelling and documentary techniques. Associated with the feminist movement in cinema, explored themes of identity and memory. Contributed to film as both a director and a visual artist, merging elements of photography and art installation into her work.
Continue ReadingRalph Klein
Politician and 12th Premier of Alberta
Born
November 1st, 1942 83 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2013 12 years ago — 70 years old
Served as the 12th Premier of Alberta from 1992 to 2006. Held the position of Mayor of Calgary from 1980 to 1989. Klein's leadership included significant tax cuts and the promotion of a range of economic initiatives. Oversaw Alberta's recovery from the 1990s economic downturn and led the province through a period of considerable fiscal surplus.
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