Michael William Balfe
Irish composer of opera 'The Bohemian Girl'
Born
May 15th, 1808
217 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1870
154 years ago — 62 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
Ireland
Links & References
An Irish composer and conductor contributed significantly to the world of opera during the 19th century. Established a successful career in London, where numerous works premiered. Most notable composition is 'The Bohemian Girl', first performed in 1843 at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. Also composed other operas, including 'The Daughter of the Regiment' and 'The Crusaders'. Served as the conductor at various theaters and was deeply involved in the musical scene of his time. His works were characterized by melodic complexity and lyrical richness, earning popularity among audiences.
Composed the opera 'The Bohemian Girl'
Conducted at prominent theaters in London
Wrote over 30 operas and numerous orchestral works
Other People Born on May 15th
Vasilis Kikilias
A basketball player and politician from Greece. Played professional basketball for several teams, including Olympiacos BC and AEK Athens. Transitioned to a political career, serving in various capacities, including as Minister of Tourism in Greece. Pursued initiatives aimed at promoting tourism and enhancing the country's global image.
Continue ReadingMaria Theresia von Paradis
Born in 1759, this individual gained recognition as a pianist, composer, and music teacher. Blind from an early age, she became adept at piano performance and composition, creating works that spanned various genres. In 1787, she published the piano concerto in G major, which showcased her skill and creativity. Her compositions were often performed in salons and were noted for their melodic charm. She had a significant career as a performer, frequently touring and collaborating with other musicians of her time. Besides her contributions as a composer, she also served as an influential music educator, instructing a number of students in Vienna. Throughout her life, she maintained a professional presence within the musical community.
Continue ReadingOskari Tokoi
A socialist politician active in Finland, held the position of Chairman of the Senate of Finland during 1917. Played a significant role in the Finnish parliament and the labor movement. Contributed to the establishment of workers' rights and social welfare policies in Finland. Involved in the Finnish Civil War, aligning with the Red faction, which ultimately resulted in his exile following their defeat.
Continue ReadingLaura Harvey
A football coach with a focus on developing women's teams, started coaching at a young age. Managed the Seattle Reign FC in the National Women's Soccer League, leading the team to a championship title. Later appointed as head coach for the U.S. U-20 Women's National Team, contributing to its success on the international stage. Held coaching positions at various clubs, emphasizing growth in women's football and the development of youth players. Known for implementing tactical strategies that enhance team performance and player skills.
Continue ReadingTania Cagnotto
Competed in diving events at multiple Olympic Games, achieving notable success in individual and synchronized diving. Secured a total of six medals at the European Championships. Achieved a bronze medal in the 3m springboard at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics. Represented Italy in various international competitions, contributing to the nation's reputation in the sport.
Continue ReadingPierre Curie
A physicist and academic, contributed significantly to the study of radioactivity. Worked alongside Marie Curie in the early 20th century. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1903 for joint research on radiation phenomena. Made foundational contributions to piezoelectricity and magnetism, advancing understanding in these fields. His work laid the groundwork for future research in radioactivity and its applications.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 20th
René Burri
Born in 1933 in Switzerland, Burri developed an early interest in photography and studied at the School of Applied Arts in Zurich. He began his career as a photojournalist and later joined Magnum Photos in 1959. Burri's work primarily focused on documenting significant historical events and influential figures. His photographs illustrated the life of renowned personalities, particularly in the realm of politics and culture. A prominent body of work includes iconic images of Che Guevara and the architectural marvels of Brazil. Burri's photographs often mingled documentary style with artistic sensibility. Throughout his career, he received recognition for his important contributions to photojournalism and photography.
Continue ReadingJames Anthony Froude
Born in England, contributed significantly to historical literature. Education at Oxford shaped analytical skills and understanding of history. Edited the 'Fraser's Magazine' and published several works, including 'History of England' and a biography of Thomas Carlyle. Engaged in discussions and controversies surrounding historical interpretation. Attended many intellectual gatherings, influencing literary and historical discourse in Victorian England.
Continue ReadingE. Donnall Thomas
E. Donnall Thomas was an American physician and academic who pioneered bone marrow transplantation as a treatment for leukemia and other blood disorders. This innovative approach has led to significant advancements in the field of hematology. Thomas conducted extensive research that established the techniques necessary for successful transplants and developed immunosuppressive regimens to help prevent organ rejection. His groundbreaking work earned him the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1990, which he shared with Joseph E. Murray for their contributions to organ transplantation.
Continue ReadingKazimierz Łaski
An economist and academic active in Poland and Austria contributed significantly to economic theory and policy. Held various academic positions and was involved in research that advanced understanding of economic systems. Focused on the development of economic policy in post-communist countries, providing analysis and guidance for reforms. Published numerous articles and papers, influencing economic thought and policy in the region.
Continue ReadingWim Kok
A prominent union leader and politician, served as the Prime Minister of the Netherlands from 1994 to 2002. Played a significant role in shaping economic and social policies during a period of economic growth. Contributed to the development of a centrist coalition government, known as the Purple Coalition, which included the Labour Party and liberal parties. Advocated for social reforms and modernization of the Dutch economy, focusing on issues such as healthcare and education.
Continue ReadingJovanka Broz
Served as a prominent military officer and head of the Yugoslav National Army's air defense forces. Contributed to the logistics and operational capabilities within the military. After the death of her husband, she became an influential figure within the country, particularly during the tumultuous years following World War II. Engaged in various political activities and was involved with the Yugoslav Communist Party. Focused on women's roles in the military and pushed for increased participation of women in the armed forces.
Continue Reading