Walter Piston

Composer and music theorist

Walter Piston - Composer and music theorist
Born

January 20th, 1894
131 years ago

Died

November 12th, 1976
48 years ago — 82 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent American composer and theorist, contributions spanned both the realms of composition and music education. Served as a professor at Harvard University and influenced future generations of musicians. Composed symphonies, concertos, and chamber music that demonstrated a deep understanding of harmony and form. Works often incorporated elements of American folk music while maintaining a classical structure, reflecting the evolving musical landscape of the 20th century.

Won the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1948

Composed eight symphonies and multiple concertos

Published influential textbooks on music theory

Other People Born on January 20th

Ian Hill

English rock bassist for Judas Priest
Born
January 20th, 1951 74 years ago

This English rock bassist was a founding member of the heavy metal band Judas Priest. Formed in 1969, the band gained prominence in the 1970s and 1980s, becoming one of the most influential heavy metal bands in music history. Notable for pioneering the metal sound, the bassist contributed to numerous albums, including 'British Steel' and 'Painkiller'. The band played a significant role in shaping the genre's future and aesthetics, particularly in live performances. Their distinctive style and image paved the way for countless artists in heavy metal and rock music.

Continue Reading

Hennie Aucamp

South African poet and author
Born
January 20th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
March 20th, 2014 10 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1934, this individual was a poet, author, and academic in South Africa. A significant contributor to Afrikaans literature, numerous works were published including poetry collections and novels. Academic roles included teaching literature at universities, influencing a generation of writers and poets. The literary community recognized contributions through various awards.

Continue Reading

Jason Richardson

American basketball player, NBA champion
Born
January 20th, 1981 44 years ago

This American basketball player was influential in the NBA during the early 2000s. Played for teams such as the Golden State Warriors, the Charlotte Bobcats, and the Detroit Pistons. Won the NBA Slam Dunk Contest in 2002 and 2003. Achieved an NBA championship with the Golden State Warriors in 2007, being a key contributor to the team's success. Renowned for scoring ability and athleticism, and consistently demonstrated skills as a shooting guard.

Continue Reading

Karl Anderson

Professional wrestler and tag team specialist
Born
January 20th, 1980 45 years ago

Professional wrestling career began in 2000. Participated in multiple wrestling promotions including WWE and NJPW. Gained prominence as part of the tag team known as The Good Brothers alongside Luke Gallows. Won the IWGP Tag Team Championship multiple times with Gallows, enhancing visibility in the tag team scene. Achieved success in WWE, where the team also captured the Raw Tag Team Championship, contributing to a substantial legacy in professional wrestling.

Continue Reading

Tom Baker

English actor, best known for Doctor Who
Born
January 20th, 1934 91 years ago

An English actor born in 1934 gained acclaim for portraying the Fourth Doctor in the British television series Doctor Who from 1974 to 1981. The role became iconic, featuring a distinct style characterized by a long scarf and curly hair. Baker's interpretation contributed significantly to the show's popularity during the 1970s. Apart from Doctor Who, he also appeared in various other television dramas and films, showcasing a range of character roles. Baker's contribution to the arts extended beyond acting, as he engaged in voice work for animated series and documentaries.

Continue Reading

Colin Clive

English actor, starred in horror films
Born
January 20th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1937 87 years ago — 37 years old

An English actor prominent in the 1930s, recognized for performances in horror films. Played Dr. Henry Frankenstein in the original 1931 film 'Frankenstein' and its sequel 'Bride of Frankenstein' in 1935. Contributed to the evolution of the horror genre through gripping portrayals and dynamic characterizations. His career was characterized by memorable roles that left a lasting legacy in cinematic history. Clive's performances established a foundation for future horror films, influencing a generation of actors and filmmakers.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on November 12th

Stephen Gardiner

English bishop and Secretary of State
Born
1497 528 years ago
Died
November 12th, 1555 469 years ago — 58 years old

A prominent English bishop and politician, guided the religious and political landscape during the reign of King Henry VIII. Served as Bishop of Winchester from 1531 and played a significant role in the establishment of the Church of England. Held the position of Secretary of State under King Edward VI, navigating the complexities of Tudor politics. After the accession of Mary I, led efforts to restore Catholicism in England, becoming a key figure in the Marian persecutions. His influence persisted until his death in 1555.

Continue Reading

Burchard III

Frankish nobleman and duke
Died
November 12th, 973 1051 years ago — None years old

Born circa 915, a significant Frankish nobleman who served as the Duke of Swabia during the 10th century. His leadership was marked by involvement in the conflicts and political dynamics of the emerging Holy Roman Empire. Burchard III played a crucial role in the lineage of the Swabian nobility, engaging in territorial expansions and establishing alliances through marriages. He held considerable influence over the region until death in 973.

Continue Reading

Aleksandr Serebrov

Russian engineer and astronaut
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
November 12th, 2013 11 years ago — 69 years old

An engineer and astronaut, this individual participated in multiple space missions as part of the Soviet and later Russian space programs. Flew on missions including Soyuz TM-13 and TM-14, contributing to the assembly of the Mir space station. Engaged in scientific research and experiments during space flights, encompassing over 365 days in space throughout career. Served as a flight engineer on several expeditions, reflecting expertise in the operation of spacecraft systems.

Continue Reading

Thomas Fairfax

English general and Member of Parliament
Born
January 17th, 1612 413 years ago
Died
November 12th, 1671 353 years ago — 59 years old

Served as a key military leader during the English Civil War. Commanded the New Model Army, achieving crucial victories against royalist forces. Held the position of commander-in-chief for Parliamentary forces, playing a significant role in the conflict that ultimately led to the establishment of the Commonwealth. Additionally, participated in negotiations following the war, influencing the future political landscape of England.

Continue Reading

Stan Lee

Comic book publisher and producer
Born
December 28th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
November 12th, 2018 6 years ago — 95 years old

A pivotal figure in the comic book industry, contributed to the creation of numerous iconic characters and storylines. Co-created superheroes such as Spider-Man, the X-Men, Iron Man, Thor, and the Hulk for Marvel Comics. Served as the publisher and chairman of Marvel Comics, significantly shaping the company's direction and success. Appeared in cameos in various Marvel films, further endearing himself to fans and solidifying his legacy in pop culture.

Continue Reading

Philippe du Plessis

Grand Master of the Knights Templar
Born
1165 860 years ago
Died
November 12th, 1209 815 years ago — 44 years old

Served as the Grand Master of the Knights Templar during a period of significant conflict in the early 13th century. Oversaw the order's operations and challenges during the Third Crusade and the subsequent period of the Crusades. Managed resources and strategic decisions that affected the order's role in defending Christian territories in the Holy Land. The tenure included involvement in key battles and negotiations with rival factions in the region, reflecting the complexities of crusader politics.

Continue Reading