Peter Maxwell Davies
Composer and conductor of orchestral works

Born
September 8th, 1934
90 years ago
Died
March 14th, 2016
9 years ago — 81 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
An English composer and conductor, contributed significantly to contemporary classical music. Studied at the Royal Manchester College of Music and later in Italy. Founded the ensemble The Fires of London, which premiered many works. Served as the Master of the Queen's Music from 2004 until death in 2016, a role that involved composing for royal events and ceremonies. Created a variety of works, including orchestral pieces, operas, and choral compositions. Notable pieces include the chamber opera 'The Lighthouse' and the symphony 'The Sense of Place'.
Composed 'The Lighthouse'
Served as Master of the Queen's Music
Other People Born on September 8th
Bhupen Hazarika
A prominent figure in Indian music and culture, this individual gained recognition for integrating folk music with modern themes. Born in Assam, contributions included the creation of songs that highlighted social issues, human rights, and the essence of life in Northeast India. As a poet, this individual composed lyrics that resonated with the struggles and aspirations of the people. Additionally, directed several films focusing on regional narratives and folklore, earning a lasting legacy in Indian cinema and music.
Continue ReadingGrace Metalious
An author published a novel that explored the hidden lives of a small town in New Hampshire. 'Peyton Place', released in 1956, became a bestseller and sparked widespread controversy due to its candid depiction of sexuality and social issues. The book's commercial success led to a film adaptation in 1957 and a television series in the 1960s, further embedding the story in popular culture. Metalious faced significant public scrutiny and personal challenges following the book's release but continued to write, producing several other works. Recognition for the novel remains strong, often cited in discussions of American literature that challenged social norms.
Continue ReadingRichard I of England
Born in 1157, this monarch ruled England from 1189 until his death in 1199. He is remembered for his role as a military leader during the Third Crusade, where he battled Saladin to reclaim Jerusalem. This king spent little of his reign in England, focusing instead on his military campaigns in the Holy Land. He was also known for his knightly valor and chivalric ideals.
Continue ReadingKarl von Ditmar
Born in 1822, a prominent geologist and explorer contributed significantly to the geological understanding of Siberia. Conducted extensive research in the region, focusing on various mineral deposits and geological formations. Participated in numerous expeditions that mapped uncharted territories, enhancing knowledge of the area's geography and natural resources. Published several scientific papers detailing findings and established recognitions in the field of geology.
Continue ReadingGojong of Korea
Ruled as the 26th Emperor of the Joseon Kingdom and became the first Emperor of Korea. Gojong declared the establishment of the Korean Empire in 1897, marking a significant shift in Korean sovereignty. His reign was characterized by efforts to modernize Korea, alongside navigating complex geopolitical tensions in East Asia. Gojong faced challenges from Japan and other foreign powers during a tumultuous period in Korean history. The emperor sought to strengthen the military and promote economic development to preserve the nation's independence.
Continue ReadingDarlene Zschech
An Australian singer-songwriter and pastor, this individual gained prominence within the contemporary Christian music genre. As a worship leader at Hillsong Church, contributed significantly to the church's music ministry. The iconic worship song 'Shout to the Lord' became a global anthem widely sung in churches around the world. This individual's work has shaped worship music and encouraged many congregations with powerful lyrics and melodies.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 14th
Claes Rålamb
A prominent figure in 17th-century Sweden, served as an influential statesman and diplomat. Held the position of Envoy Extraordinary to France and participated in various diplomatic missions. Played a vital role in negotiations during the Treaty of Karlowitz. Engaged in the governance of Sweden, contributing to the political landscape of the era. His efforts in diplomacy and statecraft were significant during a tumultuous period in Swedish history.
Continue ReadingErwin Panofsky
Contributions included foundational work in art history and iconology. Focused on the analysis of art within its historical context, developing methods to interpret the symbolic content of artworks. Published influential texts, including 'Studies in Iconology' and 'Meaning in the Visual Arts', which shaped the discipline and provided frameworks still in use today. Actively taught at various institutions, establishing courses that influenced future generations of art historians.
Continue ReadingJuan Manuel de Rosas
Served as Governor of Buenos Aires Province multiple times during the 19th century. Played a significant role in Argentine politics and military conflicts. Led efforts to centralize power and control the federalist forces in Argentina. Was a prominent figure in the civil wars that shaped the nation’s early history.
Continue ReadingStephen Hawking
A theoretical physicist and cosmologist, contributed significantly to the fields of general relativity and quantum gravity, particularly in the context of black holes. Achieved widespread recognition through the publication of 'A Brief History of Time', which made complex scientific concepts accessible to the general public. Held the Lucasian Professorship of Mathematics at the University of Cambridge for over 30 years, influencing the next generation of physicists. Despite living with a debilitating motor neuron disease, continued to advance research in theoretical physics and engaged in public science communication.
Continue ReadingScott Hall
A professional wrestler with a significant career spanning multiple decades. Utilized the ring name Razor Ramon during tenure with World Wrestling Federation (WWF). Pioneered the use of the 'bad guy' persona in wrestling. Helped form the New World Order (nWo) stable in World Championship Wrestling (WCW), which revolutionized wrestling storylines. Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2014, recognized for contributions to the wrestling industry.
Continue ReadingFannie Lou Hamer
A prominent civil rights activist, advocated for voting rights and grassroots organizing. Co-founded the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party, which challenged the all-white delegation at the 1964 Democratic National Convention. Worked with various organizations to address racial injustice and economic inequality. Testified before Congress, highlighting the struggles of African Americans in the South. Established initiatives to improve education and housing for African Americans.
Continue Reading