Marc Blitzstein
American pianist and composer of theatre
A pianist and composer, contributed significantly to American music through theatrical works. Created the groundbreaking musical 'The Cradle Will Rock,' which premiered in 1937. Other works include the opera 'Regina' and adaptations of classical works. Blitzstein's style blended elements of classical, jazz, and folk music, reflecting contemporary social issues. In addition to composing, taught music at various institutions and mentored young musicians.
Composed the musical 'The Cradle Will Rock'
Created the opera 'Regina'
Adapted classical works into modern settings
Other People Born on March 2nd
Jonathan Ericsson
Ice hockey defenseman, 2016 Stanley Cup winner
Born
March 2nd, 1984 41 years ago
Born in 1984, started professional career in 2002 with Frolunda HC in the Swedish league. Made transition to the NHL, signing with the Detroit Red Wings in 2007. Played primarily as a defenseman, contributing to team strategies and defensive plays. Had a significant role in the Red Wings' 2016 Stanley Cup championship triumph, securing a prestigious victory for the franchise. Participated in multiple seasons with the team, showcasing skills in both regular play and playoffs. Also represented Sweden in international competitions.
Continue ReadingClark Gesner
Author and composer of 'You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown'
Born
March 2nd, 1938 87 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 2002 23 years ago — 64 years old
An American author and composer created music and lyrics for several stage productions. Best recognized for composing the score for the musical 'You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown,' based on the comic strip 'Peanuts' by Charles M. Schulz. This musical premiered off-Broadway in 1967 and has since been performed extensively worldwide. Gesner also worked on other musical projects, contributing to children's television and theater, and created original songs for various productions.
Continue ReadingWibi Soerjadi
Pianist and composer with international acclaim
Born
March 2nd, 1970 55 years ago
Born in 1970, a Dutch pianist and composer gained recognition for outstanding performances and compositions. Studied at the Conservatory in Amsterdam and later at the University of Music in Freiburg, he showcased exceptional skill and artistry in the classical music domain. Concerts in prestigious venues worldwide highlighted versatility and innovative interpretation of classical pieces. Collaborated with renowned orchestras and participated in various music festivals, further cementing reputation in the global music scene. Contributions to contemporary classical music included numerous compositions and recordings.
Continue ReadingSebastian Janikowski
Gridiron football placekicker, Super Bowl champion
Born
March 2nd, 1978 47 years ago
A placekicker in American football, played 17 seasons in the NFL. Drafted by the Oakland Raiders in 2000 as a first-round pick. Spent the majority of the career with the Raiders, contributing significantly to the team's scoring efforts. Played in Super Bowl XLVII with the Baltimore Ravens. Renowned for a powerful kicking leg and long-range accuracy, solidifying a reputation as one of the strongest kickers of the era.
Continue ReadingKevin Kurányi
German footballer with Bundesliga stints
Born
March 2nd, 1982 43 years ago
An accomplished footballer, played primarily as a striker. Started professional career with VfB Stuttgart, contributing to the team from 1999 to 2003, before joining Hertha BSC. Subsequently played for Schalke 04 from 2005 to 2011, where significant successes were achieved, including winning the DFB-Pokal in 2011. Represented the German national team, scoring crucial goals in international competitions. Ended club career in 2019 after stints in other leagues.
Continue ReadingLeif Segerstam
Finnish conductor and composer
Born
March 2nd, 1944 81 years ago
Died
October 9th, 2024 1 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent Finnish conductor and composer, contributed significantly to the classical music scene. Conducted numerous orchestras around the world, including the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra and the Turku Philharmonic Orchestra. Composed over 200 works, showcasing a unique blend of traditional and contemporary styles. Segerstam's approach to conducting emphasized clarity and expression, influencing many musicians. His talents extended beyond conducting, with a reputation as an accomplished composer of orchestral and chamber music.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 22nd
David Edward Hughes
Physicist, co-inventor of the microphone
Born
May 16th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1900 125 years ago — 68 years old
A Welsh-American physicist contributed significantly to the field of acoustics through the invention of the microphone. This invention was pivotal in the development of sound technology. His work in electrical engineering also included innovations in telegraphy and the study of electromagnetic waves. Hughes's contributions enabled advances in communication and sound reproduction.
Continue ReadingShah Jahan
Mughal emperor and architect of the Taj Mahal
Born
January 5th, 1592 433 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1666 359 years ago — 74 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1628 as the fifth Mughal emperor. His reign from 1628 to 1658 was marked by significant architectural achievements, most notably the construction of the Taj Mahal in Agra, a mausoleum built in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is regarded as a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, combining elements from Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural styles. Jahan's rule also saw the expansion of the Mughal Empire and a flourishing of culture and the arts. His later years were marred by conflict with his son, Aurangzeb, who eventually imprisoned him.
Continue ReadingCarlo Orelli
Italian soldier during World War II
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2005 20 years ago — 111 years old
Served as a soldier in the Italian Army during World War II. Demonstrated leadership and strategic skills in various campaigns. Post-war, contributed to military history as an author and historian, sharing insights about the war experiences and military tactics. Engaged in veterans' affairs, providing support to former soldiers. Continued to advocate for historical preservation and remembrance of military history until death.
Continue ReadingCésar Gutiérrez
Venezuelan baseball player and manager
Born
January 26th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2005 20 years ago — 61 years old
Played in Major League Baseball primarily as a shortstop and utility infielder. Served as a player-coach for the Tiburones de La Guaira in the Venezuelan Professional Baseball League. Transitioned into managing teams in various leagues, contributing to player development and team strategy. His career spanned several decades, impacting Venezuelan baseball culture through both his playing and coaching.
Continue ReadingEmpress of Southern Han
Empress of Southern Han dynasty
Died
January 22nd, 935 1090 years ago — None years old
Ruled as the empress during the Southern Han dynasty, overseeing a period known for cultural and economic growth in the region. The reign contributed to the stabilization of Southern Han power in southern China. The empress played a significant role in governance, military campaigns, and supporting cultural developments, enhancing the dynasty’s prestige.
Continue ReadingQueen Victoria
Queen of the United Kingdom
Born
May 24th, 1819 206 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1901 124 years ago — 81 years old
Reigned from 1837 to 1901, overseeing the British Empire during a period of industrial, cultural, political, scientific, and military change. The Victorian era was defined by strict standards of morality and personal conduct, with significant advancements in technology and expansion of the empire. Engaged in the development of railways, telegraphs, and public health systems. The royal family maintained a significant influence on British society, with various descendants marrying into numerous European royal families.
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