Louis Moreau Gottschalk

Pianist and composer, 'Bande Nègre'

Louis Moreau Gottschalk - Pianist and composer, 'Bande Nègre'
Born

May 8th, 1829
196 years ago

Died

December 18th, 1869
155 years ago — 40 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

Pianist and composer achieved prominence during the 19th century. Raised in New Orleans, exposure to diverse musical traditions influenced compositional style. Studied at the Paris Conservatoire and gained recognition as a virtuoso pianist. Composed numerous works, blending classical, popular, and folk elements, showcasing the rhythms and melodies of African American and Creole music. 'Bande Nègre' is one of the notable compositions that reflected these influences. Performed widely in the United States and Europe, contributing to the popularity of American music abroad. Died in 1869 in Brazil, leaving a legacy that inspired future generations of composers.

Composed 'Bande Nègre'

Pioneered American classical music in Europe

Other People Born on May 8th

Giovanni Battista Gaulli

Italian Baroque painter and fresco artist
Born
May 8th, 1639 386 years ago
Died
1709 316 years ago — 70 years old

Active during the Baroque period, this artist contributed significantly to the development of ceiling frescoes. His works often featured dramatic compositions and vibrant colors. He trained under influential artists and became known for his work at the Church of the Gesù in Rome, where a grand ceiling fresco exemplifies the height of Baroque art. This artist also painted numerous altarpieces and exhibited proficiency in both religious and mythological themes.

Continue Reading

Adrián González

Baseball player, multiple Gold Glove winner
Born
May 8th, 1982 43 years ago

A professional baseball player, achieved significant success in Major League Baseball (MLB) primarily as a first baseman. Played for several teams, including the San Diego Padres, Boston Red Sox, and Los Angeles Dodgers. Contributed to multiple playoff teams and was a key player during his tenure, delivering consistent offensive production. Earned numerous awards throughout a career that spanned over a decade, including multiple Gold Glove and Silver Slugger awards.

Continue Reading

Saul Bass

Graphic designer and film title designer
Born
May 8th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1996 29 years ago — 75 years old

A graphic designer and filmmaker, contributed significantly to modern visual culture through iconic film title sequences and corporate logo designs. Created memorable title sequences for films such as 'Psycho,' 'Vertigo,' and 'Goodfellas.' Collaborated with notable directors and developed a distinct visual language that transformed movie marketing. Established a design firm that worked with major corporations to create influential logos, including the AT&T bell logo and the United Airlines tulip logo.

Continue Reading

Mike Cuellar

Cuban-American MLB player and Cy Young winner
Born
May 8th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 73 years old

A Cuban-American baseball player, Cuellar played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. He debuted in 1959 and had a notable career primarily with the Baltimore Orioles. Cuellar was recognized for his skills on the mound, leading the league in earned run average in 1969 and earning the Cy Young Award in 1969. He was a critical part of the Orioles' pitching rotation during their successful seasons in the 1960s and 1970s, contributing to their World Series victory in 1970.

Continue Reading

Lúcio

Brazilian footballer and World Cup champion
Born
May 8th, 1978 47 years ago

A Brazilian footballer played as a central defender, contributing significantly to both club and national team successes. Achievements include winning the 2002 FIFA World Cup with Brazil, and playing for prominent clubs including Bayer Leverkusen, Inter Milan, and Bayern Munich. His defensive skills and leadership on the field were pivotal in securing numerous titles during his career. Lúcio retired from professional football after a successful tenure in various leagues, leaving a legacy in the sport.

Continue Reading

Michelle McManus

Singer-songwriter and actress in Scotland
Born
May 8th, 1980 45 years ago

A Scottish singer-songwriter and actress, achieved prominence after winning the second series of 'Pop Idol' in the UK in 2003. After the victory, released debut album 'The Meaning of Love' which included several successful singles. Transitioned into acting with appearances in various Scottish theatre productions and television.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 18th

Konrad Zuse

Engineer and computer pioneer
Born
June 22nd, 1910 115 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1995 29 years ago — 85 years old

An engineer developed the first programmable computer, the Z3, in 1941. This machine utilized electromechanical technology and laid the groundwork for future computers. Zuse also created the Z4, which was among the earliest commercial computers. The design philosophy and programming language developed by Zuse influenced later computing concepts. His work contributed significantly to the field of computer science and engineering.

Continue Reading

Johann Gottfried Herder

German philosopher and poet
Born
August 25th, 1744 281 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1803 221 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent figure of the Sturm und Drang movement, contributed significantly to philosophy, literature, and cultural theory. Developed ideas on folk culture, language, and individuality, emphasizing the importance of national identity. Advocated for the concept of 'Volksgeist', which highlights the spirit of the people and culture. Influenced several disciplines, including linguistics and aesthetics, establishing a framework for understanding cultural development.

Continue Reading

Alfonso II of Naples

King of Naples and Sicily, patron of arts
Born
November 4th, 1448 577 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1495 529 years ago — 47 years old

Ruled as King of Naples from 1494 until his abdication in 1495. Under the reign, the kingdom was marked by significant cultural developments and he supported artists and scholars. His reign witnessed the consolidation of power and the expansion of the kingdom's influence in Italy. Abdicated the throne in favor of his son, demonstrating a commitment to the continuity of the royal line despite political challenges. Died shortly after his abdication.

Continue Reading

Sam Wanamaker

American actor and director of stage
Born
June 14th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1993 31 years ago — 74 years old

An American actor and director, was instrumental in the reconstruction of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in London. Started a career in acting during the 1940s, appearing in various films and television series. Faced difficulties during the McCarthy era due to political accusations. Transitioned to directing, with a significant focus on theater, particularly in the UK. Established the Globe Theatre Trust in 1970, which was dedicated to recreating the historic venue. The theater opened in 1997, several years after the passing of its founder.

Continue Reading

Sir Carl Meyer

Banker and businessman, Baronet
Born
1851 174 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1922 102 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent banker and businessman in the early 20th century, served as a significant figure in the financial sector. Founded Meyer & Co., a banking firm in London, which became influential in the financial markets. Presented new financial models and practices that contributed to the modernization of banking operations. Received a baronetcy in recognition of contributions to commerce and finance. His work in finance laid the groundwork for future banking practices.

Continue Reading

Ruth Bernhard

Photographer renowned for nude art
Born
1905 120 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2006 18 years ago — 101 years old

A German-American photographer, Ruth Bernhard specialized in black-and-white photography. Her career spanned several decades, during which she produced a significant body of work focusing on the human form, particularly nudes, using natural light and careful composition. Her most acclaimed series included intimate and classical portrayals of female subjects. Bernhard also contributed to photographic education and was influential in shaping the field of fine art photography. In addition to her artistic work, she was involved in the creative process behind books, showcasing her photographs and sharing her insights on the craft.

Continue Reading