Toru Takemitsu

Composer and musician renowned for 'Corona'

Toru Takemitsu - Composer and musician renowned for 'Corona'
Born

October 8th, 1930
94 years ago

Died

February 20th, 1996
29 years ago — 65 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Japan

Links & References

A prominent Japanese composer, pianist, and guitarist, this individual contributed significantly to contemporary classical music. Born in 1930, began composing in the 1950s, incorporating elements of traditional Japanese music and Western classical forms. Collaborated with various notable musicians and artists throughout the career, including conducting performances of own compositions. The work 'Corona for Strings' received particular acclaim, showcasing innovative orchestration and the blending of styles. Additionally, composed film scores, enhancing cinematic storytelling in numerous Japanese films. Earned a distinguished reputation in both the national and international music scenes before passing in 1996.

Composed 'Corona for Strings'

Created scores for films like 'Ran'

Incorporated traditional Japanese music elements

Other People Born on October 8th

Dennis Kucinich

Politician, 53rd Mayor of Cleveland
Born
October 8th, 1946 78 years ago

Served as a U.S. Congressman representing Ohio's 10th district for 16 years. Was the 53rd Mayor of Cleveland from 1977 to 1979. Advocated for progressive policies, including universal healthcare and peace initiatives. Ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2004 and 2008, focusing on issues such as economic justice and environmental protection.

Continue Reading

Molly Quinn

Actress from 'Castle' and producer
Born
October 8th, 1993 31 years ago

Born in 1993, an accomplished actress and producer. Gained recognition for the portrayal of Alexis Castle in the long-running television series 'Castle', which aired from 2009 to 2016. Additionally produced the short film 'The Fowl' in 2021, showcasing skills beyond acting. Involved in various charitable initiatives, contributing time and resources to causes focused on education and animal welfare.

Continue Reading

César Milstein

Biochemist, Nobel Prize laureate in Physiology
Born
October 8th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2002 22 years ago — 74 years old

An Argentinian-English biochemist, significant contributions focused on the development of monoclonal antibody technology. This breakthrough technology revolutionized biomedical research and diagnostics. Milstein's research was conducted primarily at the Medical Research Council Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, where innovative methodologies in immunology were established. His work gained recognition in the scientific community, culminating in the award of the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1984, shared with Georges Köhler and Niels K. Jerne.

Continue Reading

Bill Maynard

English actor from 'Heartbeat' series
Born
October 8th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2018 6 years ago — 89 years old

An English actor gained recognition for a prominent role in the television series 'Heartbeat'. Featured in various British films and TV shows throughout the career, contributing significantly to the entertainment industry. Worked in theatre initially before transitioning to television and film. Collaborated with notable British productions, establishing a strong presence on screen and stage over several decades.

Continue Reading

Karina Bacchi

Brazilian model and actress, TV host
Born
October 8th, 1976 48 years ago

Born in 1976, this Brazilian model and actress rose to prominence in the entertainment industry, participating in various television projects. Best recognized for her roles in Brazilian television, she gained fame through acclaimed telenovelas. In addition to acting, she has worked as a television host, showcasing her versatility in the media field. The combination of modeling and acting experience contributed to her popularity in Brazil.

Continue Reading

Terry Balsamo

Guitarist and songwriter for bands
Born
October 8th, 1972 52 years ago

Guitarist and songwriter gained prominence as a member of the rock band Evanescence, contributing to the band's signature sound. Participated in the recording of the album "The Open Door," which achieved commercial success. Previously served as a guitarist for the band Cold, known for their hit songs in the 2000s. Instrumental in live performances and music composition, shaping the direction of multiple tracks. Experience in both studio recording and touring enhanced the recognition of the bands.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 20th

Valentín Canalizo

Mexican general and 14th President
Born
February 12th, 1794 231 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1850 175 years ago — 56 years old

A Mexican general and politician served as the 14th President of Mexico from 1843 to 1844. He played a significant role during a tumultuous period in Mexican history marked by political instability and conflict. Canalizo was initially a supporter of the conservative forces and held various military positions before assuming the presidency. His tenure was characterized by ongoing struggles with rival factions and social unrest. After leaving office, Canalizo held command in military operations and continued to be involved in politics until his death in 1850.

Continue Reading

Chester W. Nimitz

American admiral in World War II
Born
February 24th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1966 59 years ago — 80 years old

Served as a Fleet Admiral in the United States Navy during World War II. Played a significant role in naval operations in the Pacific Theater, including the Battle of Midway. After the war, acted as Chief of Naval Operations, overseeing the expansion of the Navy during the early Cold War. Contributed to maritime strategy and modern naval policy.

Continue Reading

Henri Moissan

Chemist, Nobel Prize laureate in Chemistry
Born
September 28th, 1852 172 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1907 118 years ago — 54 years old

A French chemist and academic, contributed significantly to the understanding of chemical processes and elements. Conducted groundbreaking research on fluorine, isolating this previously unexamined element for the first time. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1906 for the development of the electric arc furnace and the extraction of fluorine from minerals. Led scientific advancements in high-temperature chemistry and materials.

Continue Reading

Mildred Dresselhaus

American physicist and 'Queen of Carbon'
Born
November 11th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2017 8 years ago — 86 years old

Contributions to the field of physics focused on carbon nanostructures and materials. Played a pivotal role in advancing the understanding of thermoelectric materials. Served as a professor at MIT, influencing generations of students in the field of physics and electrical engineering. Received numerous awards, including the National Medal of Science and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Continue Reading

A. J. Casson

Canadian painter of landscape art
Born
May 17th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1992 33 years ago — 93 years old

This individual contributed significantly to Canadian art as a landscape painter. Associated with the Group of Seven, a collective of artists dedicated to depicting the Canadian wilderness, this painter focused on capturing the essence of the Ontario countryside. Influenced by the natural beauty of Canada, the works feature bold colors and distinctive brushwork. This artist's career spanned several decades, with exhibitions showcasing the interplay of light and shadow in natural settings. The works continue to be celebrated for their representation of the Canadian landscape.

Continue Reading

Tancred

King of Sicily during the 12th century
Born
1138 887 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1194 831 years ago — 56 years old

Ruled Sicily from 1189 until death in 1194. Ascended to the throne after the death of his cousin William II. Maintained control over Sicily amidst challenges from rival claimants and political intrigue. Oversaw the kingdom during a period of instability and pursued alliances with various powers. Died without a male heir, leading to a succession crisis that impacted the region's future.

Continue Reading