Leroy Anderson
Composer and conductor of light music
Contributed significantly to the genre of light orchestral music. Anderson studied at Harvard and later became the principal arranger for the Harvard Band. Best recognized for catchy compositions, including 'Sleigh Ride' and 'The Typewriter'. His works, characterized by wit and charm, have remained popular in both orchestral and popular music contexts. Anderson also served in the United States Army during World War II, where he arranged and composed music for military ensembles.
Composed 'Sleigh Ride'
Created 'The Typewriter'
Wrote 'The Syncopated Clock'
Other People Born on June 29th
Aarre Merikanto
Finnish composer and educator, notable works
Born
June 29th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1958 67 years ago — 65 years old
Born in Finland in 1893, a prominent composer and educator emerged, contributing significantly to Finnish music. Studied at the Helsinki Music Institute and continued education in Germany. Composed various orchestral works, operas, choral pieces, and songs. Established a unique style that blended impressionism with Finnish folk elements. Served as a teacher at the Helsinki University of the Arts, influencing subsequent generations of musicians. His compositions remain a vital part of the Finnish classical repertoire, celebrated for their melodic strength and emotional depth. Through both performance and education, played a significant role in the development of Finnish music during the 20th century.
Continue ReadingJulian Champagnie
Basketball player and college athlete
Born
June 29th, 2001 24 years ago
Began playing basketball at a young age and developed skills that led to a collegiate career. Played for St. John's University, where notable performances included leading the team in scoring. Achieved recognition in the Big East Conference and contributed to the team's overall success during his time there. Transitioned to professional basketball after college, aiming to further a career in the sport.
Continue ReadingJude Bellingham
English footballer, Real Madrid player
Born
June 29th, 2003 22 years ago
Born in 2003, this footballer began his professional career with Birmingham City in the EFL Championship. At 16, became the youngest player to make an appearance for the club. In 2020, transferred to Borussia Dortmund and quickly established a reputation as a talented midfielder, contributing significantly to the team's successes in domestic and European competitions. In 2023, joined Real Madrid, adding to his prestige in the football world. Additionally, represented the England national team, participating in major tournaments such as the UEFA European Championship and FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingJosef Ressel
Inventor of the marine propeller
Born
June 29th, 1793 232 years ago
Died
1857 168 years ago — 64 years old
An inventor developed the modern marine propeller, significantly advancing naval technology. Ressel's design utilized a screw-like mechanism that allowed ships to achieve greater speeds and maneuverability in the water. This invention laid the groundwork for future advancements in maritime engineering. Ressel also worked on various other inventions and held several patents, but his contributions to propulsion technology remained the most impactful.
Continue ReadingAleksandr Shustov
High Jumper, 2008 Olympic Participant
Born
June 29th, 1984 41 years ago
Competed in high jump events, representing Russia. Achieved a personal best height of 2.36 meters. Competed at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, reaching the finals. Participated in various international competitions throughout the career, securing multiple medals in the process.
Continue ReadingQuintin Demps
American football player & safety
Born
June 29th, 1985 40 years ago
Career spanned from 2008 to 2017 with stints on various teams, primarily as a safety. Played for the Houston Texans, Philadelphia Eagles, Kansas City Chiefs, New York Giants, and Chicago Bears. Contributed to the Eagles during a season that culminated in a playoff appearance. Recorded significant interceptions and tackles throughout career, showcasing skills in both defense and special teams.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 18th
Elisha Cook Jr.
American actor in classic films
Born
December 26th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1995 30 years ago — 91 years old
Born in 1903, an American actor, the career spanned several decades from the 1930s to the 1990s. Frequently cast in character roles, gained recognition for performances in film noir. Featured prominently in influential films such as 'The Maltese Falcon', 'Shane', and 'The Great Race'. Played various supporting roles that showcased a range of emotions, from menacing to comedic. Made appearances on television series during the 1950s and 1960s, contributing to a broad legacy in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingPierre-Gilles de Gennes
Physicist, Nobel Prize laureate.
Born
October 24th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2007 18 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent physicist and academic, contributions focused on condensed matter physics and liquid crystals. Played a pivotal role in the development of the theory of liquid crystals and polymers. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1991 for discovering that methods developed for studying order phenomena in simple systems can be generalized to more complex forms of matter, in particular to liquid crystals and polymers.
Continue ReadingMary McLeod Bethune
Educator and civil rights leader
Born
July 10th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1955 70 years ago — 79 years old
An educator and civil rights leader, established a private school for African American girls in Daytona Beach, Florida, in 1904. Instrumental in forming the National Council of Negro Women in 1935. Served as an advisor to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, contributing to policies affecting African Americans. Advocated for education and civil rights throughout her life, promoting opportunities for black citizens.
Continue ReadingStephen M. Wolownik
Composer and musicologist of Russian-American descent
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2000 25 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent composer and musicologist, contributed significantly to the field of music through scholarly research and original compositions. Worked extensively on various musicological studies and presented insights into music theory and history. Composed works that displayed a deep understanding of harmony and structure. Engaged with both theoretical and practical aspects, fostering a greater appreciation for serious music among performers and audiences alike.
Continue ReadingIan Curtis
English singer-songwriter of Joy Division
Born
July 15th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1980 45 years ago — 23 years old
A prominent English singer-songwriter and guitarist, contributed significantly to the post-punk music scene. Formed the band Joy Division in 1976, which became one of the genre's most influential groups. Released the critically acclaimed album 'Unknown Pleasures' in 1979, which showcased a distinctive sound characterized by atmospheric instrumentation and introspective lyrics. The band's follow-up album, 'Closer,' was released in 1980 shortly before the singer's death. Curtis's lyrics often explored themes of existentialism and emotional turmoil, resonating with listeners and cementing his legacy in music history.
Continue ReadingHarry Ricardo
English engineer and academic notably in engines
Born
January 26th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1974 51 years ago — 89 years old
An accomplished engineer and academic, significant contributions were made to the field of internal combustion engines. Developed the Ricardo Engine, which is recognized for its advanced efficiency and performance. Held a position as a lecturer at the University of London, where engineering principles were taught and innovative research was conducted. The work during World War II focused on improving aircraft engine performance, which supported the war effort. Later involvement in automotive engineering and the promotion of high-efficiency engines marked a notable career in engineering education and practical application.
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