Ralph Burns

American songwriter and bandleader

Ralph Burns - American songwriter and bandleader
Born

June 29th, 1922
103 years ago

Died

2001
24 years ago — 79 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent figure in American music, contributions spanned several genres including jazz and musical theater. Burns served as an arranger and conductor for major Broadway productions, significantly influencing the sound of the era. His work on the musical 'Sweet Charity' earned critical acclaim and showcased his innovative arrangements. Additionally, Burns composed for television and film, further establishing a versatile career. His talent as a pianist complemented his work as a bandleader, guiding orchestras during live performances.

Arranged music for the musical 'Sweet Charity'

Won a Tony Award for 'Sweet Charity'

Composed for television and film

Other People Born on June 29th

Charles J. Precourt

Astronaut and NASA Space Shuttle pilot
Born
June 29th, 1955 70 years ago

This American colonel, pilot, and astronaut completed four spaceflights during the Space Shuttle program. Graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, flew F-15 and F-16 fighter jets prior to joining NASA. Served as the pilot on STS-55, STS-67, and STS-84, and commanded STS-91. Accumulated over 1,100 hours in space, contributing to scientific research and international missions aboard the Space Shuttle.

Continue Reading

Maria of Aragon

Queen of Portugal
Born
June 29th, 1482 543 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1517 508 years ago — 34 years old

Born in 1482, played a significant role in the political alliances of 16th century Portugal. Married Manuel I of Portugal, strengthening ties between the Portuguese crown and Spain. This union initiated the merger of the Spanish and Portuguese crowns, shaping their future relations. Maria contributed to the cultural and religious development of the court during her reign until her death in 1517.

Continue Reading

Josef Ressel

Inventor of the marine propeller
Born
June 29th, 1793 232 years ago
Died
1857 168 years ago — 64 years old

An inventor developed the modern marine propeller, significantly advancing naval technology. Ressel's design utilized a screw-like mechanism that allowed ships to achieve greater speeds and maneuverability in the water. This invention laid the groundwork for future advancements in maritime engineering. Ressel also worked on various other inventions and held several patents, but his contributions to propulsion technology remained the most impactful.

Continue Reading

Chandrika Kumaratunga

5th President of Sri Lanka
Born
June 29th, 1945 80 years ago

Served as the 5th President of Sri Lanka from 1994 to 2000. Held the position amid challenges in a country marked by civil conflict. Focused on peace initiatives and economic reforms during the presidency. Previously held the role of Prime Minister from 1990 to 1993, playing a significant role in the political landscape of the nation.

Continue Reading

Vyacheslav Artyomov

Russian composer renowned for symphonies
Born
June 29th, 1940 85 years ago

Born in 1940, significant contributions to contemporary classical music marked a prolific career. Studied at the Moscow State Conservatory, focusing on composition. Gained recognition for integration of traditional Russian elements with avant-garde techniques. Worked extensively within the academic and performance realms, contributing to both orchestral and chamber music. Influenced the development of symphonic poetry with a distinctive style characterized by intricate harmonies and rhythmic complexity.

Continue Reading

Robert Laurent

American sculptor and academic
Born
June 29th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 80 years old

An American sculptor and academic contributed significantly to the field of sculpture during the 20th century. Educated at the Massachusetts College of Art, his work often reflected influences from both modernism and American regionalism. Laurent produced several notable pieces celebrated for their unique forms and textures. He held teaching positions at various institutions, including the New School for Social Research in New York. His contributions to public art include notable sculptures in civic spaces. Laurent's career spanned several decades, during which he exhibited extensively across the United States.

Continue Reading