Spanish musicians died when they were 40

Here are 9 famous musicians from Spain died at 40:

Antonio Coello

Antonio Coello (October 26, 1611 Madrid-October 20, 1652 Madrid) was a Spanish personality.

Antonio Coello was a renowned Spanish playwright, poet, and soldier. He was born in Madrid to a family of modest means and began his career writing poetry before turning to playwriting. His most famous works include "El Tutor Burlado" ("The Deceived Tutor"), "La Vida es Sueño" ("Life is a Dream"), and "Los Empenos de un Engano" ("The Bets of a Deception"). Coello's plays were known for their wit, humor, and playfulness.

In addition to his artistic pursuits, Coello was also a soldier and served in the Spanish army. He fought in various conflicts, including the Wars of Castro and the Thirty Years' War. He was highly respected by his peers for his bravery and military skills.

Coello died in Madrid at the age of 41, leaving behind a prolific body of work that continues to be performed and studied today.

Coello's plays were written during the Golden Age of Spanish literature, and he was considered one of the most important playwrights of his time. He was especially known for his ability to blend comedy and drama in his plays. "La Vida es Sueño," in particular, is regarded as a masterpiece of Spanish literature and is still performed to this day. Coello also wrote poetry, although his plays were much more popular and influential. In addition to his literary and military pursuits, Coello was also involved in Spanish politics. He was a member of the royal court, and his plays often addressed political and social issues of the time. Despite his short life, Antonio Coello left a lasting impact on Spanish culture and literature.

Coello's success as a playwright led to him being appointed as the official playwright for the Spanish court. He wrote plays to celebrate royal events and was highly regarded by King Philip IV. In addition to his royal duties, Coello also worked as a tutor to the King's children. It is believed that his experience in this role inspired his play "El Tutor Burlado." Coello's plays were popular not only in Spain but throughout Europe, and he was an influential figure in the development of Spanish theater. He was known for his use of complex plot twists and his exploration of themes such as honor, morality, and the human condition. In his personal life, Coello was said to be a humble and devout Catholic. He never married and instead devoted himself to his work and his faith. He was also highly regarded by his contemporaries, including other Spanish literary giants such as Lope de Vega and Calderón de la Barca. Today, Coello's plays remain an important part of Spanish literary history and continue to be studied and performed around the world.

In addition to his many talents, Antonio Coello was also an accomplished translator. He was particularly skilled in translating French works into Spanish, and he helped to introduce French theater to a Spanish audience. Coello's translations were well-received and helped to pave the way for the popularity of French plays in Spain. Coello's work as a translator also gave him an appreciation for other cultures and inspired him to incorporate elements from other literary traditions into his own writing.

Coello's influence on Spanish literature and theater can still be felt today. Many of his plays are still performed and studied, and his contribution to the Golden Age of Spanish literature is widely recognized. His ability to blend humor and drama in his plays, as well as his exploration of complex themes, have made him an enduring figure in Spanish literary history. Despite his relatively short life, Antonio Coello's influence on Spanish culture and literature continues to be felt almost 400 years later.

Read more about Antonio Coello on Wikipedia »

Tomás de Iriarte y Oropesa

Tomás de Iriarte y Oropesa (September 18, 1750 La Orotava-September 17, 1791 Madrid) also known as Tomas de Iriarte y Oropesa was a Spanish personality.

He was a poet, playwright, and fabulist who served as a member of the Royal Spanish Academy. Iriarte was born in Tenerife, in the Canary Islands, and studied in Madrid, where he became involved with the literary circles of the Enlightenment. He made valuable contributions to Spanish literature, particularly in the genre of fables known as "fábulas literarias". His most famous work is a collection of these fables, A Fabulist's Treasury, which was published in 1782 and quickly became popular. Iriarte was also a translator, and he translated works by Ovid and Virgil into Spanish. In addition to his literary pursuits, Iriarte was a member of the Spanish Inquisition and served in various government positions. Despite his relatively short life, he left a lasting mark on Spanish literature and continues to be celebrated today.

Iriarte was born into a prominent family and was the eldest of 13 children. His father was a lawyer and his mother was a poet. Iriarte displayed excellent academic abilities from a young age, and at the age of 16, he was sent to study law in Madrid. However, he soon realized that his true passion was literature, and he devoted himself to writing.

During his time in Madrid, Iriarte became associated with the literary circles of the Enlightenment, which included prominent thinkers and writers such as Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos and Leandro Fernández de Moratín. He also became acquainted with other writers and intellectuals who were interested in promoting social and political reform.

Iriarte's fables are characterized by their wit, humor, and keen observations of human behavior. They often use animals as characters to explore universal themes and impart moral lessons. His works were highly regarded during his lifetime, and they continue to be studied and appreciated today.

In addition to his literary achievements, Iriarte also served in various government positions, including as a member of the Spanish Inquisition. He was known for his honesty and integrity, and he was well-respected by his colleagues.

Iriarte suffered from poor health throughout his life, and he died at the age of 40 from tuberculosis. He was mourned by his many friends and admirers, who recognized him as one of the most talented writers of his generation.

Despite his success, Iriarte was known to be a modest and humble man. He often refused invitations to social events, preferring instead to spend his time immersed in his writing. He believed that literature had the power to educate and inspire, and he saw it as a way to bring about positive change in society.Iriarte's influence on Spanish literature can still be felt today. His fables, which were written in a clear and accessible style, helped to modernize Spanish literature and make it more accessible to a wider audience. He was also a pioneer in the use of satire, which he used to criticize social and political institutions. In recognition of his contributions to Spanish literature, Iriarte was elected to the Royal Spanish Academy in 1788, becoming one of its youngest members. Today, he is remembered as one of the most important writers of the Spanish Enlightenment, and his works continue to be read and admired by people around the world.

Iriarte's legacy in Spanish literature was not limited to his writing. He was also recognized for his efforts in promoting education and literacy. He believed that access to education was a fundamental right that should be available to all, regardless of their social standing. As a result, he worked to establish public schools in Madrid and was involved in educational reform efforts. His commitment to education was so great that he once declared, "I will die happy if I see the day when every person in Spain can read and write."

In addition to his fables, Iriarte also wrote plays, although they did not achieve the same level of success as his fables. His most notable play, "El Señorito Mimado," was a comedy that poked fun at the manners and customs of the Spanish aristocracy. It was well-received by audiences but was criticized by some for being too critical of the upper class.

Despite his success as a writer and his contributions to education, Iriarte lived a relatively modest life. He never married and had no children, preferring to focus on his writing and public service work. His dedication to his craft and his commitment to social reform continue to inspire people today, and his works remain an important part of Spanish literature.

Read more about Tomás de Iriarte y Oropesa on Wikipedia »

Domènec Terradellas

Domènec Terradellas (February 13, 1711 Province of Barcelona-May 20, 1751 Rome) was a Spanish opera composer.

He began his music studies at a young age and eventually became a composer of operas, serving as the musical director of the Royal Academy of Music in Barcelona. He was highly regarded by his contemporaries and produced several successful operas throughout his career, including "Issipile" and "Artaserse". Terradellas also traveled extensively throughout Europe and spent several years living and working in London. He eventually settled in Rome, where he continued to compose operas until his death at the age of 40. Terradellas is remembered as one of the most prolific and talented Spanish composers of the 18th century.

In addition to his successful career as an opera composer, Terradellas also composed chamber music and vocal pieces. He was known for his rich harmonies and expressive melodies, which were characterized by a strong sense of drama and emotion. Despite his relatively short life, Terradellas left a significant mark on the history of Spanish music and his works continued to be performed and admired long after his death. Many of his operas have been revived and recorded in recent years, allowing modern audiences to appreciate his achievements as a composer.

Terradellas began his career as a composer in the 1730s, eventually gaining recognition for his innovative approach to opera composition. He was known for incorporating elements of traditional Spanish music into his works, while also incorporating the latest trends in Italian opera. Throughout the 1730s and 1740s, Terradellas continued to produce successful operas, many of which were performed in prestigious theaters throughout Europe.

In 1744, Terradellas was invited to London to compose an opera for the King's Theatre. The result was "Artaserse," which was a major success and helped to establish Terradellas as one of the leading composers of his time. While in London, he also produced several other successful works, including a masque entitled "Jupiter in Argos."

After spending several years in London, Terradellas moved to Rome, where he continued to compose operas until his untimely death in 1751. Despite his relatively short career, Terradellas' works had a significant impact on the development of Spanish opera and continue to be admired for their beauty and innovation. Today, he is regarded as one of the most important composers of the 18th century and his music is still performed and studied by musicians and scholars around the world.

His works were known for their use of rich harmonies and expressive melodies, which often had a strong sense of drama and emotion. In addition to his successful career as an opera composer, Terradellas also composed chamber music and vocal pieces, demonstrating his versatility as a composer.

Terradellas' legacy continued to grow after his death, with many of his works being revived and performed in the centuries that followed. His influence on Spanish opera was evident in the works of later composers, and he is still regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of Spanish music.

Despite his success and recognition during his lifetime, Terradellas' career was cut short at the age of 40. However, his legacy as a composer has endured over the centuries, and his works continue to be celebrated for their beauty and innovation.

Read more about Domènec Terradellas on Wikipedia »

Juan de Tassis, 2nd Count of Villamediana

Juan de Tassis, 2nd Count of Villamediana (April 5, 1582-August 21, 1622) was a Spanish personality.

He was a poet, courtier, and member of the Royal Council during the reign of King Philip III of Spain. Villamediana was known for his wit and intelligence, as well as his outstanding writing skills. He was a supporter of the arts and helped promote Spanish literature during the Spanish Golden Age. However, he also led a controversial life, with rumors of sexual escapades and political intrigue. He was assassinated in 1622 under mysterious circumstances, which remain unsolved to this day. Despite his controversial life, Villamediana is remembered as one of the great literary figures of his time.

Villamediana was born in Italy, where his father was serving as ambassador to the Vatican. He was educated in Spain and became a member of the court of King Philip III in 1601. Throughout his life, Villamediana was known for his love of poetry, and he wrote numerous works in both Spanish and Italian. His most famous work is a collection of sonnets, titled "Desengaños amorosos" or "Amorous Disillusions."

Aside from his literary pursuits, Villamediana was also involved in politics. He served as a member of the Royal Council and was appointed governor of the province of Soria in 1612. However, his political career was cut short by his scandalous reputation, and he was ultimately removed from his positions and forced into exile.

Despite his exile, Villamediana continued to write, and his works remained popular. In 1622, he returned to Madrid under the pretext of negotiating a marriage for one of his daughters. However, he was assassinated on August 21 of that year by unknown assailants. The circumstances of his death remain a mystery, with some speculating that he was killed for political reasons or as a result of a romantic rivalry. Regardless of the cause of his death, Villamediana's legacy as a poet and literary figure continues to be recognized today.

Villamediana was not only known for his poetry and politics but also for his colorful personal life. He was known to have numerous affairs with both men and women, which stirred up controversy and scandal during his time. Despite his unconventional lifestyle, he was able to charm his way through the court and remain a prominent figure of his time. However, his behavior eventually caught up to him, leading to his downfall in politics and his eventual assassination.

In addition to his literary and political pursuits, Villamediana was also a patron of the arts and supported artists and writers of his time. He was known to have a great admiration for playwright Lope de Vega, and the two had a close friendship. Villamediana's legacy continues to inspire writers and poets today, with many referring to him as a pioneer of Spanish literature. His works have been translated into multiple languages, and his influence in Spanish culture and literature remains significant.

Villamediana's controversial life has been the subject of numerous literary works and plays, including "El conde de Villamediana" by Spanish playwright Max Aub. His life has also been the focus of scholarly research, with historians and literary critics examining his contributions to Spanish literature and his impact on the cultural landscape of his time. Despite the scandal surrounding his personal life, Villamediana's creative genius and his contribution to the development of Spanish literature and culture cannot be overlooked. His works remain an important part of the Spanish literary canon and continue to be celebrated by readers and scholars alike.

Read more about Juan de Tassis, 2nd Count of Villamediana on Wikipedia »

José Cadalso

José Cadalso (October 8, 1741 Cádiz-February 26, 1782 Gibraltar) also known as Jose Cadalso was a Spanish writer.

He was a member of the Enlightenment movement in Spain and is best known for his work titled "Cartas Marruecas" (Moroccan Letters). This work is a series of fictional letters written from the perspective of two Moroccans living in Spain, discussing the cultural differences and similarities between the two countries. Cadalso was also a soldier and is known for his military writings as well. He died at a young age while serving in the Spanish Army during the Siege of Gibraltar. Despite his short life, Cadalso's contributions to Spanish literature and the Enlightenment movement have had a lasting impact.

In addition to "Cartas Marruecas," José Cadalso also wrote a novel titled "Los Elixir de la Larga Vida" (The Elixir of Long Life), which was a parody of the popular genre of the time that focused on magical cures and potions. He also wrote several plays, including "Don Sancho Garcia," a tragedy set in medieval Spain. Cadalso was an avid reader and was fluent in several languages, including French and Italian. He used his love of literature and his experiences as a soldier to shape his writing, creating a unique perspective that contributed to the development of the Spanish literary canon. Despite his untimely death, José Cadalso's legacy as a writer and soldier continues to be celebrated and studied to this day.

Cadalso was born into a family of military background and grew up in a military environment. He studied at the Royal and Military College of Madrid before being commissioned as an officer in the Spanish Army. Cadalso was known for his intellectual curiosity and was a member of various literary and scientific societies, including the Royal Spanish Academy. His interest in literature and culture extended beyond his writing, as he also translated works from other languages, including "The Art of War" by Sun Tzu.

Cadalso was also known for his travel writing, including "Viaje a Italia" (Journey to Italy) and "Viaje a la Costa de Granada" (Journey to the Coast of Granada). These works provided detailed descriptions of the people, culture, and landscapes Cadalso encountered during his travels, and reflected his interest in cultural exchange and dialogue.

Despite his relatively short career, Cadalso's work had a significant impact on the literary and intellectual scene of 18th century Spain. His innovative use of literary form, critical approach to cultural exchange and commentary on social issues, marked him as an influential figure of the Enlightenment movement. His work continues to be studied in universities and literary circles around the world.

José Cadalso was also known for his outspoken views on social issues, particularly his opposition to the mistreatment of the lower classes by oppressive rulers. He used his writing to criticize the Spanish monarchy and the Catholic Church, arguing that they were both responsible for perpetuating social inequality and depriving the lower classes of their rights. Cadalso's views on social justice and human rights were ahead of his time, and his writing continues to resonate with readers who are passionate about these issues.Cadalso's untimely death while serving in the Spanish Army during the Siege of Gibraltar has been a source of much speculation and debate. Some historians believe that he was killed in battle, while others suggest that he may have committed suicide due to his disillusionment with the military and his tragic personal life. Regardless of the circumstances of his death, José Cadalso's contribution to Spanish literature and the Enlightenment movement has ensured that his legacy lives on. His work remains an important part of the literary canon and continues to inspire readers and writers around the world.

Read more about José Cadalso on Wikipedia »

Buenaventura Durruti

Buenaventura Durruti (July 14, 1896 León-November 20, 1936 Madrid) was a Spanish personality.

Buenaventura Durruti was a prominent anarchist leader and revolutionary who played a pivotal role in the Spanish Civil War. He co-founded the anarcho-syndicalist trade union CNT and was a key figure in the establishment of the Federación Anarquista Ibérica (FAI). Through his activism, Durruti sought to create a world free from oppression and exploitation, where workers and the oppressed could control their own lives.

During the Spanish Civil War, Durruti led a column of anarchist fighters known as the Durruti Column. This column played a crucial role in the defense of Madrid against the fascist forces led by General Francisco Franco. Durruti was known for his bravery and his commitment to revolutionary ideals, and he inspired many others to fight for the cause of libertarian socialism.

Durruti's death was shrouded in controversy, with some claiming that he was assassinated by Stalinist agents, while others believed he died in combat. Regardless of the circumstances of his death, Durruti's legacy as a revolutionary and anarchist leader continues to inspire activists and socialists around the world.

Durruti's life was marked by a series of conflicts with the authorities. He was arrested numerous times and spent much of his youth in and out of jail. Despite this, he continued to organize and agitate for workers' rights and anarchist ideals.In addition to his political activism, Durruti was also an accomplished mechanic and an avid motorcycle enthusiast. He was known to ride his motorcycle on long journeys through the Spanish countryside, and even took part in motorcycle races.In his later years, Durruti's influence within the anarchist movement grew. He was seen as a charismatic and uncompromising leader, and his writings and speeches continue to be studied by anarchists and socialists today. Durruti's commitment to the cause of social justice and his bravery in the face of danger have made him a symbol of resistance and revolution for generations to come.

Durruti's funeral was attended by thousands of mourners, including fellow anarchists and supporters from around the world. His death was deeply felt by the anarchist movement, and his legacy has continued to inspire generations of activists and revolutionaries.

Durruti's ideas and actions continue to be studied and debated by scholars and activists alike. Some see him as a hero of the working class who fought bravely against oppression and exploitation, while others criticize his willingness to use violence and his uncompromising approach to politics.

Despite these debates, Durruti remains an important figure in the history of anarchism and the struggle for workers' rights. His life and legacy exemplify the ideals of libertarian socialism and the fight for a more just and equal society.

Durruti's death did not bring an end to his legacy, as his ideals lived on through his influence on other activists and his writings. His collected works were published in a book called "The Anarchist Collectives: Workers' Self-Management in the Spanish Revolution 1936-1939," which remains a key text in anarchist literature today. Durruti continues to be remembered as a symbol of rebellion, resistance, and solidarity, inspiring generations of activists to fight for a socialist world. His image can often be seen in graffiti and posters in radical social circles, and his name is frequently invoked in demonstrations and protests.

He died caused by murder.

Read more about Buenaventura Durruti on Wikipedia »

Juan Gris

Juan Gris (March 23, 1887 Madrid-May 11, 1927 Boulogne-Billancourt) a.k.a. José Victoriano González-Pérez was a Spanish painter, artist, sculptor and visual artist. His child is called Georges Gris.

Juan Gris was a key member of the Cubist movement along with Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque. He was known for his use of geometric shapes and subdued colors in his paintings, which explored themes of still life and interior scenes. Prior to his involvement in the Cubist movement, Gris worked as an illustrator and caricaturist for various publications. He also experimented with different styles, including Fauvism, before developing his signature Cubist style. Gris' work is characterized by its precision and attention to detail, as well as its sense of harmony and balance. Today, his paintings are considered to be some of the most important works of the Cubist movement.

Juan Gris was born as the thirteenth child of a wealthy man named Gregorio González, who was a Castilian paper manufacturer, and his wife Isabel Pérez. Gris was sent to study engineering in Madrid in 1902, but he quit after two years to pursue art. He moved to Paris in 1906, where he met Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque, the founders of Cubism. He quickly adopted the style and became one of its leading exponents.

In 1912, Gris exhibited his works for the first time at the Salon des Indépendants in Paris. His works were well received, and he soon gained recognition for his unique approach to Cubism. Over the years, Gris developed his own distinct style, in which he used a wide range of materials, including newspapers, advertisements, and musical scores, to create collages that sought to capture the sensation of modern life.

Gris also designed costumes and sets for several ballets and operas, including Sergei Diaghilev's Ballets Russes. In addition to his visual art, Gris also wrote poetry and essays on art.

Despite his relatively short career, Juan Gris had a profound impact on the development of modern art, and his works remain highly sought after by collectors and art enthusiasts around the world.

In the last years of his life, Juan Gris' health began to decline, and he suffered from intense migraines and chronic renal issues. Despite his health struggles, he continued to produce artwork until his death in 1927 at the age of 40. Before his passing, Gris had gained international recognition for his innovative approach to Cubism and his significant contributions to the art world. Today, his works are showcased in renowned museums around the world, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Musée National d'Art Moderne in Paris. Juan Gris' enduring legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of artists who continue to build upon his groundbreaking ideas and techniques.

One interesting fact about Juan Gris is that he was very close friends with the writer and art collector Gertrude Stein. Stein became one of Gris' most significant patrons and collectors, urging her own friends to buy his works and providing him with critical support throughout his career. In fact, Gris' 1915 portrait of Gertrude Stein is one of his most iconic works, and is now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Gris himself also became a collector of sorts, amassing a personal collection of art and artifacts that included works by his fellow Cubists, as well as African masks and other non-Western objects.

He died caused by renal failure.

Read more about Juan Gris on Wikipedia »

Conchita Supervía

Conchita Supervía (December 8, 1895 Barcelona-March 30, 1936) was a Spanish singer.

She was renowned for her powerful mezzo-soprano voice and her ability to perform a wide range of styles, from opera to traditional Spanish songs. Supervía began her career in Spain, but soon gained international acclaim for her performances in major European cities and in the United States. In addition to her successful singing career, she was also a noted philanthropist, using her fame to raise money for various charitable causes. Tragically, she passed away at the young age of 40 from an embolism, cutting short a promising career and leaving a lasting legacy in the world of classical music.

During her career, Conchita Supervía performed in many renowned opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York City and La Scala in Milan. She was known for her interpretations of roles such as Carmen, Rosina in The Barber of Seville, and Charlotte in Werther. In addition to her performances in traditional operas, she also recorded popular Spanish songs, which became widely popular. Her work is considered a milestone in the Spanish classical music scene, and she influenced many singers who came after her. Supervía is remembered for her dedication to her craft and her generosity to those in need, making her a beloved figure in the music community during her lifetime and beyond.

Despite passing away at a young age, Conchita Supervía left behind a significant body of work. She recorded extensively, leaving behind recordings of many of her signature roles, as well as popular songs from her native Spain. In addition, she was known for her style and fashion sense, which helped to cement her status as a cultural icon. Supervía was also a trailblazer in her field, breaking barriers for women in the male-dominated world of classical music. She was one of the first female singers to perform trouser roles, or male parts played by female singers, in opera. Supervía's contributions to classical music and to the world of philanthropy have made her a beloved figure in Spain and around the world, and she continues to be celebrated for her work to this day.

Supervía came from a family that was heavily involved in the arts. Her mother was a noted singer, and her father was a well-known choir conductor. It was not surprising, then, that Supervía's talent for singing developed early in her life. She began taking music lessons at a young age and made her debut performance at the age of 14, singing in a zarzuela, a type of Spanish operetta.

At 17, Supervía left Spain to study music in Milan, Italy, where she rapidly gained recognition for her vocal ability. Soon, she was performing in major opera houses throughout Europe, including the Paris Opera and the Royal Opera House in London. In 1924, she made her debut at the Metropolitan Opera in New York, where she quickly became a favorite among American audiences.

Supervía was also known for her philanthropic work, which included organizing benefit concerts for various charities, hospitals, and orphanages. She was known for her generosity and her commitment to helping those in need. In recognition of her charitable efforts, Supervía received several honors and awards during her lifetime.

Today, Conchita Supervía is remembered as one of the greatest mezzo-sopranos of the early 20th century. Her powerful, unique voice and her contribution to the world of opera have made her a legend. She was a trailblazer in her field, and her legacy continues to inspire new generations of classical musicians.

Read more about Conchita Supervía on Wikipedia »

Miguel Fleta

Miguel Fleta (December 28, 1897 Albalate de Cinca-May 29, 1938) was a Spanish singer.

His albums include Miguel Fleta (Prima Voce). Genres he performed include Opera and Classical music.

Read more about Miguel Fleta on Wikipedia »

Related articles