What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

David Bedford

Keyboard player, composer, conductor
Born
August 4th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 74 years old

A keyboard player, composer, and conductor, achieved recognition for contributions to contemporary classical music and progressive rock. Worked with various artists and bands, collaborating on innovative projects that blended genres. Composed music for both live performances and recordings, showcasing a blend of traditional and modern influences. Conducted orchestras and ensembles, demonstrating a commitment to expanding the reach of classical music. The versatility and creativity led to a distinctive style that resonated with audiences.

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George Baker

Actor in 'The Spy Who Came in from the Cold'
Born
April 1st, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1931, this Bulgarian-English actor and screenwriter began his career in theater before transitioning to film and television. He gained recognition for work in various roles, particularly as an intelligence officer in 'The Spy Who Came in from the Cold' and as Inspector Wexford in the series 'Ruth Rendell Mysteries'. Baker's contributions extended beyond acting, including screenwriting efforts and a significant presence in British television throughout the 1980s and 1990s.

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Eddie Joost

Baseball player and manager, All-Star
Born
June 5th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 95 years old

Started a career in Major League Baseball in 1936 with the Cincinnati Reds. Played primarily as a shortstop and third baseman, earning recognition for outstanding defensive skills. Achieved All-Star status in 1949 while playing for the Philadelphia Athletics. Transitioned to a managerial role after retiring as a player, guiding teams in the minor leagues. Served as a coach in Major League Baseball during the 1960s and 1970s, contributing to the development of future players and managers.

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Kurt Sanderling

Conductor known for orchestral leadership
Born
September 19th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 99 years old

A Polish-German conductor, Sanderling's career spanned several decades and included leading prestigious orchestras around the world. Sanderling served as the principal conductor for the Hamburg Symphony Orchestra and the Berlin Symphony Orchestra. Renowned for interpretations of works by composers such as Mahler and Shostakovich, Sanderling was celebrated for his ability to convey the emotional depth of the music. His performances were characterized by a deep understanding of orchestral textures and a focus on clarity in sound. Sanderling also contributed to music education and mentored many young conductors throughout his career.

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Mike Starr

American bass player in rock band Alice in Chains
Born
April 4th, 1966 58 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 45 years old

A prominent American bass player, contributed significantly to the rock music scene as a member of the band Alice in Chains. Played on the band's highly regarded 1992 album 'Dirt,' which featured hit songs such as 'Rooster' and 'Would?' Later worked on various solo projects and collaborations, showcasing talent and versatility. Struggled with personal issues throughout life, which became more publicly visible in later years.

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Richard Leacock

Film director and producer, documentary cinema
Born
July 18th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 90 years old

A pioneer of documentary cinema, contributed significantly to the development of direct cinema. Worked on influential films that emphasized observational filmmaking. Collaborated with significant figures in the industry, including the production of 'Primary' in 1960, which captured the Wisconsin primary election between John F. Kennedy and Hubert Humphrey. Involved in educational film projects and taught at various institutions, influencing future generations of filmmakers.

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Joe Perry

American football player, Hall of Famer
Born
January 22nd, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 84 years old

A professional American football player, he played as a fullback in the National Football League (NFL) primarily for the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Colts. During a career spanning from 1948 to 1963, he was selected as a Pro Bowl player multiple times. He gained recognition for his remarkable rushing ability and was a key player during his tenure. In 1963, he became the first player in NFL history to rush for over 1,000 yards in a single season. His statistics and contributions to the game led to induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1973.

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Liviu Ciulei

Romanian actor and director of plays
Born
July 7th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 88 years old

Ciulei was an influential figure in Romanian theater and cinema. He studied at the University of Bucharest, where he later became a prominent teacher. His directorial debut occurred in the 1960s, leading a production of 'Hamlet'. Ciulei also starred in films such as 'The Reenactment' and 'The Last Stop'. His innovative approach to stage directing earned him recognition among peers. He received numerous awards for his contributions to theater and film, receiving accolades at both national and international levels.

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Jani Lane

Singer-songwriter of 'Cherry Pie'
Born
February 1st, 1964 61 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 47 years old

A prominent figure in the rock music scene during the late 1980s and early 1990s, the individual gained widespread recognition as the lead vocalist of the band Warrant. The band achieved significant success with their debut album, which included the hit single 'Cherry Pie,' contributing to the popularity of glam metal. The individual also ventured into solo projects, showcasing songwriting skills and a distinctive voice. Warrant's albums such as 'Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich' and 'Dog Eat Dog' further cemented the band's place in rock history, with multiple chart-topping hits.

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