Here are 2 famous musicians from Russian Empire died at 31:
Olexander Smakula (April 5, 2015 Dobrovody-May 17, 1983 Auburn) was a Russian physicist.
He was best known for his contributions to the development of fiber optics and his research on the electronic structure of solids. Smakula was born in Dobrovody, Russia (now Ukraine) and received his education at the University of Munich, where he earned his doctorate in physics in 1933. After working as a research assistant in Germany, he emigrated to the United States in 1935 and joined the faculty of Auburn University in Alabama. During World War II, he conducted research for the U.S. Signal Corps on the transmission of light through glass fibers. His work laid the foundation for the development of the modern fiber optic communication systems that are now widely used in telecommunications. Smakula was also known for his research on the properties of crystals and the electronic structure of solids. He published over 100 scientific papers during his career and was recognized with numerous awards and honors for his contributions to physics.
In addition to his work in physics, Olexander Smakula was also an accomplished musician. He played the violin and piano and was a member of the Auburn Symphony Orchestra. He was also a founding member of the Auburn String Quartet, which performed throughout the state of Alabama. Smakula was known for his dedication to teaching and mentoring students. He founded the Auburn University Physics Club and was instrumental in establishing the university's doctoral program in physics. After his death in 1983, the university established the Olexander Smakula Memorial Lectureship in his honor, which brings distinguished physicists to Auburn each year to deliver lectures and interact with students and faculty.
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Nikolai Chekhov (May 23, 1858 Taganrog-June 29, 1889 Kharkiv Oblast) a.k.a. Nikolai Pavlovich Chekhov was a Russian painter.
Chekhov was the elder brother of renowned writer Anton Chekhov. He studied at the Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture, and later traveled to Europe, where he studied under various artists. His artworks included landscapes, portraits, and still life paintings, which were praised for their use of color and light. Despite his untimely death at the age of 31, his works continue to be celebrated and exhibited in Russia and around the world.
One of Chekhov's notable works is his painting called "July Day," which depicts a group of Russian peasants celebrating on a summer day. His style was heavily influenced by the Russian realist movement, which emphasized capturing the everyday life of ordinary people. Chekhov also taught art and was a member of the Society for Travelling Art Exhibitions, a prominent art association in Russia at the time. In addition to his artistic pursuits, he was also a philanthropist and worked to improve conditions for peasants and workers in Russia. Despite his brief life, Chekhov made significant contributions to the art world and played an important role in the cultural and artistic movements of his time.
He died in tuberculosis.
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