Pierre Schaeffer
Composer and producer of musique concrète
Born
August 14th, 1910
114 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1995
29 years ago — 85 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
France
Links & References
Born in France, this individual developed musique concrète, a form of experimental music that uses recorded natural sounds as raw material. He worked as a radio producer and composer, and began the interdisciplinary use of sound in art and music. The creation of the GRM (Groupe de Recherches Musicales) in 1958 marked a significant moment in the exploration of electronic music and sound manipulation. The contributions to sound and music aesthetics influenced generations of composers and musicians.
Pioneered the musique concrète movement
Founded the Groupe de Recherches Musicales
Authored several influential texts on sound and music
Other People Born on August 14th
Elena Baltacha
Born in 1983, this athlete competed in professional tennis, representing Great Britain. She achieved a career-high singles ranking of world No. 49. Throughout her career, numerous tournaments were contested, including Wimbledon and the US Open. Post-retirement, a focus shifted to coaching and promoting tennis among young players after battling illness. A foundation was established to support aspiring athletes.
Continue ReadingTom Walkinshaw
A Scottish race car driver and businessman, this individual achieved prominence in motorsport as a competitor and team organizer. He began his racing career in the 1960s, gaining recognition in events such as the British Touring Car Championship. As a team owner, he established Tom Walkinshaw Racing and contributed to the success of several franchises, including the iconic Jaguar sportscar team during the 1980s and 1990s. His leadership in motorsport was characterized by innovative strategies and significant contributions to vehicle performance in high-stakes racing. This individual also held ownership stakes in various automotive companies, emphasizing a deep connection to the racing industry.
Continue ReadingPeter Costello
Served as a prominent Australian politician and held the position of Treasurer from 1996 to 2007. During tenure, focused on economic reforms that contributed to a period of sustained economic growth. Led Australia's tax reform agenda and oversaw significant budget surpluses. Played a key role in shaping the economic policies of the Howard Government, aiming to reduce public debt and increase government savings.
Continue ReadingMarcia Gay Harden
An accomplished actress, significant work includes a lead role in the film 'Pollock', which garnered an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Other prominent performances occurred in 'Mystic River' and 'The Starter Wife'. The career began in theater before transitioning to film, showcasing versatility across genres. Work spans over three decades, with appearances in both dramatic and comedic roles across television and film. Known for strong character portrayals, contributions to the arts include multiple accolades and nominations throughout the career.
Continue ReadingMargaret Lindsay Huggins
Pioneered advancements in astrophotography in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Collaborated with her husband, pioneering astronomy and significantly contributing to the study of stellar spectroscopy. Credited with the discovery of several nebulae and other celestial phenomena using innovative methods of imaging. Participated actively in the scientific community and contributed numerous papers to astronomical journals, enhancing understanding of celestial bodies.
Continue ReadingRonnie Campbell
Born in 1943, a veteran of the coal mining industry worked as a miner before entering politics. Served as a Member of Parliament for the Blyth Valley constituency from 1987 to 2019. Advocated for workers' rights and represented the interests of mining communities throughout the tenure in the House of Commons. Played a prominent role in discussions regarding labor rights, particularly those affecting the coal industry. Retired after over three decades in political office.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 19th
Donald Woods
A journalist and anti-apartheid activist. Early in his career, covered the geographical and social intricacies of South Africa. Supported the black liberation movements and documented the struggles against apartheid. Gained international recognition for the coverage of the life and death of Stephen Biko, a prominent Black Consciousness leader. Published 'Biko', a book that detailed Biko's life and the anti-apartheid struggle, which contributed to international awareness and condemnation of apartheid policies. Woods faced persecution by the apartheid regime, leading to a period of exile in the United Kingdom.
Continue ReadingGeoffrey II
Born in 1158, Geoffrey II was a Duke of Brittany and the son of King Henry II of England and Eleanor of Aquitaine. His reign as Duke spanned from 1186 until his death in 1186. Geoffrey was influential in the politics of both England and France during a time of considerable conflict. He took part in various military campaigns alongside his father's forces. His marriage to Constance of Brittany further strengthened the ties between Brittany and the English crown. Following his untimely death, his son became Duke of Brittany, continuing his lineage's involvement in the region's leadership.
Continue ReadingRaúl Ruiz
A prominent Chilean director and producer, recognized for a unique filmmaking style and exploration of complex narratives. Ruiz's career began in the 1960s, and he became influential in the Latin American cinema landscape. He directed over a hundred films, with notable works including 'Time Regained', 'Three Crowns of the Sailor', and 'The Golden Boat'. His films often incorporated themes of memory, identity, and the surreal. Ruiz moved to France during the Pinochet regime in Chile, where he continued to work and gain international acclaim. He remained active in cinema until his death in 2011.
Continue ReadingLouis Anquetin
A painter associated with the Post-Impressionist movement, contributed to the development of the cloisonnism style. Studied at the Académie Julian and engaged with notable contemporaries, including Vincent van Gogh. His work featured bold colors and distinct outlines, influenced by Japanese art. Exhibited at the Salon des Indépendants and collaborated with other artists in the Parisian avant-garde scene.
Continue ReadingAndrea del Castagno
An Italian painter from the early Renaissance, noted for frescoes and portraits. Worked primarily in Florence and achieved recognition for his dynamic compositions and vivid colors. Notable works include the frescoes in the convent of Sant'Apollonia in Florence, particularly 'The Last Supper' and the portrayal of various saints. The artist's style incorporated strong chiaroscuro and expressive figures, characteristic of the period. Del Castagno's contributions were instrumental in the development of Renaissance painting, leaving a lasting legacy.
Continue ReadingJames Foley
A photographer and journalist specialized in reporting from conflict zones, particularly in the Middle East. Worked for several international news organizations and covered the Syrian civil war extensively. Captured powerful images that highlighted the realities of war. Abducted in Syria in 2012 and held captive until 2014, when he was tragically killed. His work raised awareness about the dangers faced by journalists in hostile environments.
Continue Reading