Stan Tracey

Jazz pianist and composer, 'The Geiger Counter'

Stan Tracey - Jazz pianist and composer, 'The Geiger Counter'
Born

December 30th, 1926
98 years ago

Died

December 6th, 2013
11 years ago — 86 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

An English pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the jazz scene in the UK. Began performing in the 1940s and gained recognition in the 1960s. Led his own band and recorded numerous albums, blending elements of jazz with classical music. Achieved acclaim for compositions that showcased improvisational skills. The album 'The Geiger Counter' is often highlighted as one of his significant works. Continued to influence and mentor young jazz musicians throughout his career.

Released the acclaimed album 'The Geiger Counter'

Contributed to the UK jazz scene since the 1940s

Led his own jazz band

Other People Born on December 30th

Felix Pappalardi

American producer and musician, Mountain
Born
December 30th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1983 41 years ago — 43 years old

A singer-songwriter, bass player, and producer, played a key role as a member of the rock band Mountain. Contributed to the band's legacy through hit songs and dynamic performances. Produced groundbreaking albums and collaborated with various artists throughout the career. Served as a producer for influential acts and was involved in shaping the sound of the era.

Continue Reading

Barry Briggs

Motorcycle racer and sportscaster
Born
December 30th, 1934 90 years ago

Achieved significant success in motorcycle speedway racing during the 1950s and 1960s. Secured three World Championship titles in 1957, 1958, and 1960 while competing for the New Zealand national team. After retiring from competitive racing, transitioned to a prominent role as a sportscaster, providing analysis and commentary for motorcycle racing events. Continued to exhibit a passion for the sport and remained involved in various motorsport-related activities, contributing to the promotion and development of motorcycle racing.

Continue Reading

Lloyd Kaufman

Director and producer of cult films
Born
December 30th, 1945 79 years ago

Co-founded Troma Entertainment, specializing in independent films and cult classics. Directed and produced numerous films, including 'The Toxic Avenger' and 'Class of Nuke 'Em High'. Instrumental in establishing a niche for low-budget horror-comedy films, emphasizing satirical social commentary and creative storytelling.

Continue Reading

Phillips Idowu

Triple Jumper and Olympic medalist
Born
December 30th, 1978 46 years ago

Born in 1978, an English triple jumper achieved significant success in the sport. Competed in multiple international competitions, including the Olympics and World Championships. Secured a silver medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics and won gold at the 2006 European Championships. Also claimed silver at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Was one of the top triple jumpers of his generation.

Continue Reading

Rob Scuderi

Ice hockey player, Stanley Cup champion
Born
December 30th, 1978 46 years ago

An ice hockey player participated in the National Hockey League (NHL). Played primarily as a defenseman. Achieved considerable success with the Pittsburgh Penguins, contributing to the team's victory in the 2009 Stanley Cup Finals against the Detroit Red Wings. Also played for teams such as the Los Angeles Kings and New York Islanders during a career that spanned over a decade. Known for strong defensive skills and reliability on the ice.

Continue Reading

Scott Chipperfield

Australian footballer and World Cup player
Born
December 30th, 1975 49 years ago

Played as a winger and midfielder, representing Australia in international competitions. Made significant contributions to the national team during the 2006 FIFA World Cup, showcasing talents on one of the sport's biggest stages. Enjoyed a successful club career in the Australian league and in Europe, particularly with FC Basel in Switzerland. Earned a reputation for versatility and skill on the ball throughout a lengthy career.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 6th

Charles McClendon

American football coach and player
Born
October 17th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
December 6th, 2001 23 years ago — 78 years old

Played college football at Louisiana State University. Served as head coach for the Louisiana State University football team from 1962 to 1979. Led the team to multiple bowl games, achieving notable success in the Southeastern Conference. Developed several players who went on to professional careers in the NFL.

Continue Reading

Saint Nicholas

Greek bishop and patron saint
Died
December 6th, 343 1681 years ago — None years old

A Christian bishop in the early 4th century, contributed to the development of Christian doctrine and tradition. Celebrated for his generosity, particularly towards children and the poor. Legends about gift-giving stem from stories related to his life. Served as the Bishop of Myra, a major center of early Christianity. The transformation of his legacy led to the modern figure of Santa Claus.

Continue Reading

Said Halim Pasha

Ottoman politician, Grand Vizier
Born
1865 160 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1921 103 years ago — 56 years old

Served as the 280th Grand Vizier of the Ottoman Empire from 1913 to 1917. Played a significant role during World War I, overseeing political and military strategies. Advocated for reform within the Ottoman government, including modernization efforts. Engaged in diplomatic relations with various countries during a tumultuous period for the empire.

Continue Reading

Roy Orbison

Singer-songwriter with iconic ballads
Born
April 23rd, 1936 88 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1988 36 years ago — 52 years old

A prominent figure in rock and pop music, this singer-songwriter gained recognition for a unique voice and emotive songs. Originating from Texas, significant success came in the early 1960s with chart-topping hits that blended rockabilly, pop, and country influences. The artist's career included collaborations with other musicians and a return to popularity in the 1980s, highlighted by the formation of the Traveling Wilburys. A distinctive style characterized by dark glasses and a solemn stage presence became part of the persona.

Continue Reading

Anthony Trollope

English novelist and essayist
Born
April 24th, 1815 209 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1882 142 years ago — 67 years old

A significant figure in English literature, this individual authored numerous novels that depicted Victorian society. The most prominent works include the 'Chronicles of Barsetshire' series and 'The Way We Live Now'. As an essayist, contributed to various topics, often addressing social issues of the time. This individual balanced a career in the Post Office, alongside a prolific writing schedule, producing a substantial body of work that includes over 40 novels.

Continue Reading

Jean Pierre Flourens

Physiologist and academic specializing in brain studies
Born
April 13th, 1794 230 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1867 157 years ago — 73 years old

Contributions included research on the functions of different parts of the brain, particularly the cerebellum and the medulla oblongata. Conducted experiments on animals to understand the roles of various brain regions and effects of lesions. Flourens developed methods to study the nervous system, leading to a better understanding of brain localization. His work influenced subsequent neurological studies and laid groundwork for future research in physiologic psychology.

Continue Reading