Rudolf Serkin

Czech-American pianist and educator

Rudolf Serkin - Czech-American pianist and educator
Born

March 28th, 1903
122 years ago

Died

May 8th, 1991
34 years ago — 88 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

Born in 1903, this pianist and educator gained prominence in classical music, particularly through performances and recordings of works by composers such as Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms. Trained in Europe, he emigrated to the United States in the 1920s, where he became a dynamic presence in the concert scene. He served as a faculty member at the Curtis Institute of Music, influencing generations of pianists.

Performed at Carnegie Hall

Recorded extensively for RCA Victor

Co-founded the Marlboro Music Festival

Other People Born on March 28th

Murray Adaskin

Violinist, composer, and conductor
Born
March 28th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2002 23 years ago — 96 years old

A Canadian violinist, composer, and conductor contributed significantly to the classical music scene throughout a prolific career. Studied at the Royal Conservatory of Music and performed with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Founded the Vancouver Chamber Choir and served as conductor, enhancing vocal performance in Canada. Composed numerous works for orchestra, chamber groups, and solo instruments. Played an essential role in the development of music education.

Continue Reading

Freddie Bartholomew

American actor in classic films
Born
March 28th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1992 33 years ago — 67 years old

Child actor performed in several prominent films during the 1930s. Gained recognition for performances in 'Captains Courageous' and 'Little Lord Fauntleroy'. Transitioned to adult roles, but later withdrew from film industry. Acted in both movies and theater, showcasing talent at a young age. Maintained a low profile after retirement, yet held a lasting legacy in early Hollywood cinema.

Continue Reading

Rick Barry

Basketball player, NBA champion, Hall of Famer
Born
March 28th, 1944 81 years ago

A professional basketball player, made significant contributions to the sport during the 1960s and 1970s. Played primarily as a forward and was known for a unique underhand free throw shooting style. Played for the Golden State Warriors, helping the team secure an NBA Championship in 1975. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1987 for individual achievements and contributions to the game. Also represented the United States in the Olympics, winning a gold medal in 1964.

Continue Reading

Marlin Perkins

Zoologist and television host, Mutual of Omaha
Born
March 28th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 81 years old

A zoologist and television host, contributed to wildlife education and conservation through television. Hosted the television series 'Wild Kingdom' which aired from 1963 to 1988 and showcased exotic animals and their habitats. Worked at the St. Louis Zoo and played a significant role in promoting zoo practices and animal welfare. Influenced public interest in wildlife through engaging storytelling and on-location filming.

Continue Reading

Consalvo Sanesi

Italian race car driver, Mille Miglia winner
Born
March 28th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1998 26 years ago — 87 years old

Achieved prominence as an Italian race car driver. Competed in prestigious events throughout the 1930s, showcasing skills on various race courses. Gained recognition for performances in endurance races, notably the Mille Miglia, where strategic driving and speed were essential. Had a successful partnership with Alfa Romeo, piloting their cars to multiple victories. Endured challenges of pre-World War II racing, contributing to the development of motorsport in Italy.

Continue Reading

Jonathan Drouin

Professional ice hockey player, NHL star
Born
March 28th, 1995 30 years ago

A Canadian ice hockey player, played as a left winger in the National Hockey League (NHL). Drafted third overall by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft. Made significant contributions to the Lightning, particularly during the 2014-2015 season when he helped the team reach the Stanley Cup Final. Later traded to the Montreal Canadiens. Played for Team Canada at various international tournaments, winning gold at the 2015 World Junior Championships.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 8th

Zeki Alasya

Turkish actor and film director
Born
1943 82 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2015 10 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent figure in Turkish cinema, this actor and director gained recognition through a prolific career in film and television. He starred in numerous television series and films, including the widely acclaimed comedy series 'İstanbul'da Sonbahar' and 'Köyden İndim Şehire'. His work spanned several decades, beginning in the 1960s, during which he became a significant contributor to the Turkish entertainment industry. Not only did he act, but he also directed multiple productions, shaping the landscape of Turkish comedy and drama. His career ended with his passing in 2015.

Continue Reading

Helena Blavatsky

Theosophist and co-founder of Theosophy
Born
August 12th, 1831 193 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1891 134 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1831 in Russia, this scholar and occultist co-founded the Theosophical Society in 1875, promoting spiritualism and Eastern religions. The society aimed to explore the mystical and esoteric aspects of various philosophies and religions. Significant contributions included writings such as 'Isis Unveiled' and 'The Secret Doctrine,' which examined the underlying truths of the universe and human existence. The teachings emphasized the unity of all life and the importance of spiritual awakening, influencing various spiritual movements in the West. Her work laid foundations for modern esotericism and New Age beliefs.

Continue Reading

Lila Bell Wallace

American publisher, co-founder of Reader's Digest
Born
December 25th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1984 41 years ago — 94 years old

Co-founded Reader's Digest, a successful and influential magazine, in 1922. Played a significant role in shaping the publication's direction and content. Actively engaged in philanthropy, supporting various educational and health initiatives through charitable foundations. Contributed to the wellness and literacy of communities through her work in publishing.

Continue Reading

Eddy Arnold

American country singer and songwriter
Born
May 15th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2008 17 years ago — 89 years old

One of the leading voices in country music, Arnold gained prominence in the 1940s and 1950s. He pioneered the Nashville Sound, a movement that blended country music with pop elements, which significantly broadened the genre's appeal. Arnold recorded numerous hit songs, including 'Make the World Go Away' and 'I'll Hold You in My Heart.' His career spanned several decades, and he became a key figure in the transition of country music into mainstream culture. In addition to music, Arnold appeared in films and on television, showcasing his talents beyond the recording studio.

Continue Reading

Luis Miguel Dominguín

Spanish bullfighter with global fame
Born
November 9th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1996 29 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1926, this bullfighter rose to prominence in Spain during the mid-20th century. Renowned for exceptional skill in the bullring, attracted significant public attention and became a cultural icon. Engaged in legendary rivalries with other bullfighters, which captivated audiences. Expanded influence beyond Spain by performing in various international bullfighting arenas. Achieved notoriety and was often associated with glamorous figures of the time, furthering the fame of bullfighting as an art form.

Continue Reading

William Schallert

American actor and Screen Actors Guild president
Born
July 6th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2016 9 years ago — 93 years old

An American actor and prominent figure in the entertainment industry, had a career spanning over six decades. Acted in film, television, and theater, and played notable roles in popular series. Served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 1979 to 1981, advocating for the rights of actors during a transformative period in the industry. Participated in multiple television projects and films, establishing a recognizable presence on screen.

Continue Reading