Here are 6 famous musicians from England died at 51:
George Basevi (April 1, 1794 London-October 16, 1845) was an English architect.
Basevi was born to a wealthy family and received a private education before studying architecture in the office of Sir John Soane. He later traveled to Italy where he studied classical architecture, which inspired his designs. Basevi's most well-known works include the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge and the Church of St. Thomas in Stockport. He also played a significant role in the construction of the Houses of Parliament in London. Despite his success as an architect, Basevi struggled financially throughout his career and often worked on projects for little pay. His accidental death occurred while he was inspecting the roof of Ely Cathedral.
In addition to his architectural achievements, George Basevi was an accomplished artist, sketching and painting landscapes and buildings throughout his career. He also had a passion for music, playing the piano and the violin. Basevi was a member of the Royal Institute of British Architects and was highly respected within the architectural community. He was known for his attention to detail and his ability to incorporate classical elements into his designs. Despite his financial struggles, Basevi remained dedicated to his work and completed many significant projects throughout his career. His legacy continues to be celebrated in the world of architecture, and his work serves as an inspiration to aspiring architects around the world.
Basevi's work in the Houses of Parliament was not without controversy. He was responsible for designing the clock tower, which later became known as the Big Ben. However, his design was criticized for being too plain and lacking in elaborate sculpture. Basevi's original design was eventually modified by architect Charles Barry, who added the decorative elements that the tower is now famous for.
In addition to his architectural and artistic pursuits, Basevi also had a passion for travel. He made several trips to Italy throughout his career, where he studied classical architecture and sketched various buildings and landscapes. His sketches and drawings are now held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
Despite his relatively short career, George Basevi's contributions to architecture helped shape the landscape of 19th-century England. He was a pioneer of the classical revival style, which blended traditional elements of Greek and Roman architecture with modern design principles. Today, his legacy continues to inspire architects and artists around the world.
He died as a result of accidental fall.
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Walter Bagehot (February 3, 1826 Langport-March 24, 1877) was an English political scientist, economist, writer, journalist and editor.
He was born in Langport, Somerset, England and educated at University College London. Bagehot was a prolific writer, contributing to The Economist magazine for over 30 years, where he served as editor from 1860 until his death in 1877. He also wrote several books, including "The English Constitution" which is still considered a classic in the field of political science. Bagehot was known for his penetrating analysis of the workings of government, his witty and aphoristic writing style, and his advocacy of the importance of the monarchy in the British political system. He was a leading thinker of his time, and had a profound influence on later generations of political scientists, economists, and journalists.
In addition to his work as a journalist and writer, Walter Bagehot was also involved in politics. He served as a member of the first London School Board and was a strong advocate for education reform. Bagehot was also a supporter of free trade and was critical of protectionist policies. He was a friend and advisor to many influential politicians of his time, including Prime Minister William Ewart Gladstone. Bagehot's ideas on government and economics continue to be studied and debated by scholars today. His legacy has been recognized by numerous awards and honors, including the establishment of the Bagehot Memorial Fund for literary and historical research.
Furthermore, Walter Bagehot married his wife Eliza Wilson in 1858 and they had three children together. He was an avid traveler and often journeyed to Europe, particularly to France and Germany, to observe and analyze their political and economic systems. Bagehot was also a respected literary critic and enjoyed writing reviews of books, plays, and poetry. He was a member of the literary group known as the "Metaphysical Society", which included prominent intellectuals such as Alfred Lord Tennyson and William Gladstone. Bagehot's work has been praised for its depth, clarity, and insight into complex issues. He was a passionate advocate for individual freedom, democracy, and effective government. Walter Bagehot's impact on British political and economic thought remains significant to this day, and his writing continues to be widely read and admired around the world.
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Christopher Hassall (March 24, 1912 London-April 25, 1963 Rochester) a.k.a. Christopher Vernon Hassall was an English actor, poet, playwright, librettist and lyricist. His child is Imogen Hassall.
Hassall was best known for his collaborations with composer Benjamin Britten, with whom he wrote the libretti for several operas, including "Albert Herring" and "The Rape of Lucretia." He was also a prolific writer of children's books and musicals, and wrote lyrics for popular songs such as "London Pride" and "The Lambeth Walk." In addition to his creative pursuits, Hassall was a key figure in the British Council's theatre department during World War II, helping to bring British theatre to international audiences. His contributions to British theatre were recognized with a CBE in 1958.
Hassall's interest in the arts began at a young age when he wrote poetry and acted in plays. He attended Oxford University, where he studied English literature and became a member of the Oxford University Dramatic Society. After graduating, he pursued a career in the arts and worked as an actor in London's West End.
In 1937, Hassall met Benjamin Britten, and the two began a creative partnership that would result in several successful operas. Hassall wrote the libretto for "Albert Herring" in 1947, which received critical acclaim and helped establish Britten as a major composer. He also wrote the libretto for "The Rape of Lucretia," which premiered in 1946.
Hassall was also a prolific writer of children's books, including "The Flight of the Bumble Bee" and "The Lonely Unicorn." He wrote a number of musicals as well, such as "Salad Days" and "Merry England."
During World War II, Hassall worked for the British Council's theatre department and helped to establish theatre companies in Egypt, Iran, and Iraq. He was a firm believer in the power of theatre to promote understanding between cultures.
Hassall was married twice and had two daughters. He died at the age of 51 while on a visit to the United States. His legacy lives on in his contributions to British theatre and his collaborations with Benjamin Britten.
In addition to his work as a librettist, lyricist, and writer, Christopher Hassall was also a talented actor. He performed in several stage productions, including "The Ascent of F6" by W.H. Auden and Christopher Isherwood, and "The Bacchae" by Euripides. Hassall also made appearances in films, such as "The Beachcomber" (1938) and "Carnival" (1946).
Hassall's contributions to British theatre extended beyond his creative work. He was a strong voice for the preservation of historic theatres in London, and served as the Honorary Secretary of the Theatres Trust from 1958 to 1963. Hassall was also an advocate for the inclusion of the arts in education, and he served as the Chairman of the Children's Theatre Association from 1957 to 1959.
Despite his achievements, Hassall's personal life was marked by tragedy. His first wife, Joan Cross, passed away in 1957, leaving him to raise their two daughters alone. Hassall suffered from depression throughout his life, and he reportedly struggled with alcoholism. His death at the age of 51 was a shock to the theatre community, but his contributions to British theatre and his collaborations with Benjamin Britten continue to be celebrated today.
He died as a result of myocardial infarction.
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Francis Goodwin (May 23, 1784 King's Lynn-August 30, 1835 Portman Square) was an English architect.
He was known for designing a number of prominent buildings in England, including the Royal Dockyard Church in Portsmouth and the Royal Military Asylum in Chelsea. Goodwin was born in King's Lynn, Norfolk in 1784 and studied architecture in London. He worked as an assistant to architect Sir John Soane before setting up his own architectural practice in 1815. Goodwin's designs were characterized by their Greek and Roman-inspired neoclassical features, often incorporating pillars and domes. In addition to his architectural work, Goodwin was also an accomplished artist and musician. He died in Portman Square in 1835 at the age of 51.
During his career, Goodwin designed a number of other prominent buildings, including several churches, such as the Parish Church in St. Pancras, and the Holy Trinity Church in Marylebone. He also designed the Cheshire County Courthouse in Chester and the Town Hall in Halifax. Goodwin was a fellow of the Royal Institute of British Architects and was known for his involvement in local charitable organizations, such as the Society for the Relief of Widows and Orphans of Medical Men. In his personal life, Goodwin was married twice and had several children. He was remembered by his peers as an innovative and talented architect, whose contributions to neoclassical design continue to influence modern architecture today.
Goodwin's most significant work was perhaps the design of the Royal Naval College in Portsmouth, which was built between 1811 and 1814. The impressive structure, now known as the Royal Naval Academy, is a prime example of Goodwin's blend of classicism and practicality. The building features a large central hall with a domed ceiling, surrounded by colonnaded galleries. Goodwin's skillful use of space and light allowed for the maximum number of students to be accommodated within its walls.
Aside from his architectural achievements, Goodwin was also a prolific writer. He authored works on ornamental design and architecture, including "Designs for Shop-Fronts, Door-Cases and other Architectural Ornaments" and "Rudiments of Architecture and Building." These books were well-received by his peers and the general public, cementing his reputation as an expert in his field.
Goodwin's legacy lives on in many of the buildings he designed, which still stand today as impressive examples of neoclassical architecture. His influence can be seen in the works of later architects, such as Charles Barry, who himself was responsible for many iconic buildings in England. Goodwin's dedication to his craft, his artistic talent, and his commitment to philanthropy have earned him a place in history as a respected and admired figure.
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John Harington (August 4, 1561 Kelston-November 20, 1612) was an English author, courtier and inventor.
He is credited with inventing the flush toilet, which he called the "Ajax", and for being the first person to have one installed in his home in 1596. Harington was also a prolific writer, producing works ranging from political satires to translations of popular Latin texts. He was a favorite of Queen Elizabeth I and was appointed as her godson. He spent most of his life at court, where he entertained with poetry, music, and wit, and was widely respected for his intelligence and creativity. Despite his accomplishments, Harington struggled with financial troubles for much of his life, and died in debt in 1612.
Harington was born into an influential family with strong connections to the Tudor court, which helped pave the way for his own successful career as a courtier. Among his many accomplishments, he is also credited with creating the first English-language translation of Ludovico Ariosto's epic poem "Orlando Furioso". He was a master of both prose and poetry, and his works were widely read by the literary circles of his time. In addition to his literary pursuits, Harington was also known for his wit and charm, which made him a popular figure at court. He was twice married, and had three children. Despite his financial struggles, Harington left behind a legacy as one of the most creative and inventive figures of his time, whose contributions continue to be felt even today.
Harington's early years were marked by his education at Eton and Cambridge, where he studied with some of the most important figures of the era. He went on to serve in the royal court of Queen Elizabeth I, where he became known for his intelligence and wit, and gained a reputation as a skilled courtier. Harington's social and professional connections led to his appointment as godson to the queen, and he became a close friend and confidant to many of the most important figures at court.
In addition to his literary works and invention of the flush toilet, Harington was also known for his interest in military matters, and was appointed as a captain in the English army during the Armada campaign of 1588. His extensive military experience gave him a unique perspective on the political and social issues of the day, and he used this perspective to craft some of his most incisive satirical works.
Despite his many accomplishments, Harington faced significant challenges throughout his life, including financial difficulties that plagued him until his death. However, his contributions to literature, technology, and society were significant, and his legacy as an inventor and writer continues to inspire and influence people to this day.
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Walter Read (November 23, 1855 Reigate-January 6, 1907 Addiscombe Railway Park) was an English personality.
Walter Read was not only a personality but also a noteworthy cricketer and footballer. He captained the Surrey County Cricket Club for six seasons, between 1890 and 1895, leading the team to the County Championship title in 1890. As a footballer, he played as a goalkeeper for Oxford University and won three caps with the England national team. In addition to his sports career, Read was also a lawyer, who trained as a barrister and practiced law in London. He was known for his exceptional endurance and physical stamina, often playing in football matches and cricket games on the same day. Despite his impressive sporting achievements and professional success, Read struggled with health problems throughout his life and passed away at the age of 51.
During his career as a cricketer, Walter Read was known for his fast bowling and right-handed batting skills. He played 66 first-class matches, scoring 2,689 runs and taking 328 wickets. Read was also a talented footballer and played for the Old Carthusians, Corinthian and Swifts Football Club. He represented the England national team in their first-ever football game against Scotland in 1872, which ended in a 0-0 draw.
Read was a man of many interests, and in addition to sports and law, he was also involved in politics. He served as a Conservative councillor for the London Borough of Lambeth from 1896 to 1901. In 1898, he ran for Parliament as a Conservative candidate but was defeated in the election.
Walter Read's legacy lives on in the cricket and football communities, and he is remembered as a versatile and talented sportsman who contributed greatly to the development of both sports.
Off the field, Walter Read was also known for his passion for photography and was a skilled amateur photographer. He often took pictures of his teammates and other sportsmen, and his work has been featured in various cricket and football publications. He was also a keen traveler and went on several trips to Europe, Africa, and America, documenting his travels through photographs and journals. Additionally, Walter Read was a philanthropist who donated generously to various causes, including educational institutions and charities for the poor. He was a longtime supporter of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and helped raise funds for the organization. Despite his many accomplishments, Walter Read was known for being a modest and humble individual who never boasted about his achievements. He was highly respected by his peers and teammates, and his contributions to sports and society continue to be celebrated today.
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