Toots Thielemans
Belgian guitarist and harmonica player
A prominent musician excelled in jazz and a variety of other genres. Developed a unique style on the harmonica and guitar, incorporating melody and emotion into performances. Collaborated with legendary artists including Ella Fitzgerald and Pat Metheny. Instrumental in popularizing the diatonic harmonica in jazz music, often performing in concert and on recordings. Composed music for films, such as 'The Last Temptation of Christ.'
Popularized harmonica in jazz music
Collaborated with Ella Fitzgerald
Composed score for 'The Last Temptation of Christ'
Worked with Pat Metheny
Other People Born on April 29th
Bob McClure
Baseball player and coach
Born
April 29th, 1952 73 years ago
Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1975 to 1987. Teams included the Kansas City Royals, Chicago White Sox, and the New York Yankees. Transitioned into coaching, contributing to the development of various pitchers in the minor and major leagues. Worked with the Milwaukee Brewers and has experience as a pitching coach for several major league teams.
Continue ReadingMarietta Blau
Physicist and academic in nuclear physics
Born
April 29th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1970 55 years ago — 75 years old
An Austrian physicist specialized in nuclear photography and radiology. Developed methods for the detection of nuclear particles using photographic emulsions. Made significant contributions to the understanding of cosmic rays through pioneering research conducted in high-altitude laboratories. Worked as a professor, sharing knowledge in nuclear physics and related fields. Received recognition for scientific contributions and became a prominent figure in the academic community.
Continue ReadingParren Mitchell
American politician and civil rights advocate
Born
April 29th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 85 years old
Served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1971 to 1987, representing Maryland's 7th congressional district. Advocated for civil rights and economic opportunities for African Americans during a time of significant social change. Played a role in various legislative efforts aimed at improving conditions for minorities and underprivileged communities. Contributed to housing policies and programs during tenure, addressing urban issues and focusing on equal opportunities. Worked as the first African American elected to the Maryland State Legislature prior to congressional career.
Continue ReadingInfanta Sofía of Spain
Spanish princess and royal family member
Born
April 29th, 2007 18 years ago
Born into the Spanish royal family, an heiress to the throne, has participated in various official events and royal engagements. Recently involved in various charitable initiatives, representing the royal family at social functions and ceremonies. Engaged in educational pursuits and public appearances, reflecting royal duties as part of the monarchy.
Continue ReadingMichael Heidelberger
Immunologist and pioneer of immunology
Born
April 29th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
1991 34 years ago — 103 years old
An American immunologist contributed significantly to the understanding of antibodies and their role in the immune response. Heidelberger studied under prominent figures in the field and advanced methods for studying immune responses to polysaccharide antigens. He developed a seminal theory on the structure of antibodies, which paved the way for future research in immunology. His efforts led to breakthroughs in vaccines and diagnostic tests. Heidelberger's work has been foundational in immunological research and education.
Continue ReadingMalcolm Sargent
Conductor of the London Philharmonic
Born
April 29th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 1967 58 years ago — 72 years old
An English organist, composer, and conductor, contributed significantly to the musical landscape of the 20th century. Served as the principal conductor of the London Philharmonic Orchestra and conducted the Proms concerts in London. Established a reputation for bringing classical music to a broader audience through innovative programming and engaging performances. Held esteemed positions at various orchestras and festivals, showcasing a wide range of repertoire. Composed several works and arrangements that continued to be performed long after his time.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 22nd
Vladimir Propp
Russian Scholar of Folklore
Born
April 29th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1970 55 years ago — 75 years old
A scholar in the field of folklore and narrative theory, this individual developed a structural approach to the study of folktales. The work focused on identifying common narrative structures in Russian fairy tales. Published a seminal book titled 'Morphology of the Folktale' in 1928, establishing a systematic analysis of folktale structure and typology. Contributions influenced literary theory, narrative studies, and the analysis of storytelling in various cultures.
Continue ReadingEric Thompson
Race car driver and businessman
Born
November 4th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2015 10 years ago — 95 years old
A race car driver and businessman participated in motorsport during the mid-20th century. Competed in various racing events and was associated with notable British motor racing teams. Later transitioned into business, focusing on automotive enterprises. Contributed to both motorsport and the automotive industry, showcasing skills in both arenas.
Continue ReadingGrace Paley
Short story writer and poet, influential voice
Born
December 11th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2007 18 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent short story writer and poet, contributed significantly to American literature. Published several collections of stories, including 'The Little Disturbances of Man' and 'Here and Somewhere Else.' Wrote poetry that often reflected social themes and personal experiences. Worked as an activist supporting anti-war and feminist causes, intertwining literary work with social justice.
Continue ReadingGina Bachauer
Pianist and composer renowned for performances
Born
May 21st, 1913 112 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1976 49 years ago — 63 years old
Born in Greece, a pianist and composer gained prominence through extensive concert performances across Europe and the United States. Exhibited remarkable talent from a young age, studying at the Athens Conservatoire. Gained international recognition after winning the prestigious 1939 International Piano Competition in Vienna. Established a successful career in the U.S., performing with major orchestras and collaborating with celebrated musicians. Returned to Greece after World War II, contributing to the cultural life through concerts and teaching. Instrumental in founding the Gina Bachauer International Piano Competition in Salt Lake City, honoring her legacy and encouraging young pianists worldwide.
Continue ReadingOliver Lodge
Physicist and academic with electrical work
Born
June 12th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1940 85 years ago — 89 years old
An English physicist contributed significantly to the study of electromagnetism and the development of wireless communication. Developed the coherer, an early device for detecting radio waves, leading to advancements in radio technology. Served as a professor of physics at the University of Birmingham and published numerous works on electromagnetism and psychical research. Engaged in debates regarding the existence of life after death and the scientific study of paranormal phenomena.
Continue ReadingJan Neruda
Czech Journalist and Poet
Born
July 9th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1891 134 years ago — 57 years old
Born in Prague, a significant figure in Czech literature. Contributed to journalism and poetry during the 19th century. His literary work spanned various forms, including essays, columns, and poetry collections. Gained prominence through the use of vivid imagery and exploration of everyday life. Became associated with the literary movement known as the Czech National Revival. Worked for several periodicals, significantly influencing the cultural landscape of Czech society. His poetry often highlighted the struggles and aspirations of ordinary people.
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