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Swiss musicians died at 59

Here are 15 famous musicians from Switzerland died at 59:

Domenico Gilardi

Domenico Gilardi (June 4, 1785 Montagnola-February 26, 1845 Milan) was a Swiss architect.

He trained in Milan and Paris, and his work reflects the influences of neoclassical and romantic styles. Gilardi designed numerous buildings in Switzerland, Italy, and France, including the neo-gothic Church of St. Joseph in Lausanne, the Palazzo del Comune in Meride, and the Villa Litta in Milan. He was also known for his restoration work, particularly on historic buildings such as the Castello Sforzesco in Milan. Gilardi's legacy continued after his death, as many of his architectural designs were completed by his son, Carlo. Today, his works are recognized for their innovative use of materials, blend of styles, and balance between aesthetic appeal and practical function.

In addition to his architectural work, Domenico Gilardi was also a respected professor at the Academy of Fine Arts in Milan. He taught architecture and sculpture and was known for his dedication to his students, many of whom went on to become well-known architects themselves. Gilardi was also active in the cultural and artistic communities in Milan and was a member of several academic societies. He was honored for his contributions to architecture and the arts during his lifetime, receiving accolades and recognition from institutions and governments throughout Europe. Today, his works and legacy continue to inspire and influence architects and artists around the world.

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Thomas Erastus

Thomas Erastus (September 7, 1524 Baden-December 31, 1583 Basel) was a Swiss physician.

He is known for his work as a theologian and his contributions to the development of Protestantism. Born in Baden, Switzerland in 1524, Erastus studied philosophy and medicine at the University of Basel. He developed an interest in theology and became a disciple of Huldrych Zwingli, a leading figure of the Swiss Reformation.

Erastus became a professor of medicine at the University of Heidelberg in 1558, where he also taught theology. He was a strong advocate for church discipline, arguing that the church should have the power to excommunicate members who did not adhere to its teachings. This belief led to the development of what is now known as "Erastianism," a theory that asserts the state's authority over the church.

Erastus is best known for his work on religious disputes and excommunication. His work, "Explicatio gravissimae quaestionis, utrum excommunicatio, quae ab una ecclesia fit, a cunctis aliis, quae ejusdem sunt consitionis et reformationis, sit manenda," argued that excommunication should only be carried out by the church in which the individual was a member.

Erastus died in 1583 in Basel, leaving behind a legacy as a prominent theologian and physician. His contributions to the development of the Protestant movement in Switzerland and beyond continue to be studied and discussed to this day.

Erastus’ views on excommunication were influential in the Protestant Reformation, and his beliefs on church discipline were adopted by the Presbyterian and Congregationalist churches. Besides his theological work, Erastus made significant contributions to medical science. He believed in the medical treatment of diseases, rather than relying on magic or astrology. He also advocated for the sterilization of instruments before surgery, and encouraged doctors to wash their hands before treating patients. Erastus played a key role in the establishment of the University of Heidelberg's medical school, and later became the court physician to Elector Palatine. Despite his success, Erastus was not without controversy. He was accused of being a crypto-Calvinist by his opponents, and was criticized for his views on predestination. Nonetheless, his legacy as an accomplished physician and theologian endures, and his work continues to be studied and debated by scholars and theologians.

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Roger Courtois

Roger Courtois (May 30, 1912 Geneva-May 5, 1972) was a Swiss personality.

Roger Courtois was an accomplished writer, screenwriter, and film director. He began his career as a journalist before becoming involved in the film industry. Courtois directed several notable films in the 1940s and 1950s, including "Le Criminel" and "Symphonie Pour Un Massacre."

In addition to his work in film, Courtois was also a prolific writer. He published several novels and plays throughout his career, many of which were critically acclaimed. Courtois also worked as a screenwriter for other directors, collaborating on projects such as "Le Corbeau" with Henri-Georges Clouzot.

Despite his success, Courtois was plagued by personal demons throughout his life. He struggled with alcoholism and reportedly suffered from bouts of depression. Tragically, Courtois took his own life in 1972 at the age of 59. Despite his untimely death, Courtois is remembered as an influential figure in the French film industry and a talented writer.

Courtois was born in Geneva, Switzerland in 1912 to a French father and Swiss mother. He spent most of his childhood in France before attending the University of Geneva to study literature. After working as a journalist for a time, he made his way to Paris in the 1930s, where he began his career in film as an assistant director.

In 1942, Courtois directed "Les Inconnus Dans La Maison," which quickly gained popularity and solidified his place as a major player in the French film scene. He continued to direct and write films, including 1952's "Les Amants De Minuit" and 1954's "Sur Le Banc."

In addition to his professional successes, Courtois also had a fascinating personal life. He was married to actress Lila Kedrova, who won an Academy Award for her role in "Zorba the Greek." The couple's relationship was tumultuous, however, and they divorced after several years of marriage.

Despite his struggles, Courtois left behind a lasting legacy in French cinema. His work is still celebrated today, and he is remembered as an important figure in the history of French film.

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Guy de Pourtalès

Guy de Pourtalès (August 4, 1881 Berlin-June 12, 1941) was a Swiss personality.

Pourtalès was a man of many talents, excelling in various fields such as writing, journalism, and art. He was known for his travels and writings on cultural and historical subjects, particularly on the rise and fall of empires. Pourtalès authored several books, including "The Old Europe and the New," "The Decline of Europe," and "The Last Days of the Romanovs," which portrayed his deep knowledge and passion for history.

Apart from his writing, Pourtalès was also an accomplished painter, having trained in Paris under the tutelage of Maurice Denis and Paul Sérusier. He contributed to several art exhibitions in Europe, and his works were praised for their vivid colors and unique style.

During World War I, Pourtalès served as a war correspondent for Swiss newspapers, covering events from various fronts in Europe. He was also an advocate for peace and diplomacy between nations, and his views on international relations gained him a reputation as a political commentator.

Despite his multifaceted career, Pourtalès had a rather tragic ending. He committed suicide in 1941 following the outbreak of World War II and the escalating tensions in Europe. However, his contributions to literature, art, and journalism continue to be recognized and celebrated today.

Pourtalès was born into a wealthy family in Berlin but spent most of his life living a nomadic lifestyle, traveling extensively throughout Europe and beyond. He was fluent in several languages, including English, French, and German, which enabled him to interact with different cultures and gain new perspectives. Pourtalès was also an avid reader, and his wide-ranging interests included philosophy, sociology, and psychology.

In addition to his eclectic career and personal interests, Pourtalès was also known for his bohemian lifestyle. He was known to frequent literary and artistic circles in Paris and was a close friend of many prominent figures such as Pablo Picasso, Marcel Proust, and James Joyce. Pourtalès' unique background and intellectual curiosity informed much of his work, and his contributions to various fields are considered influential to this day.

Today, Pourtalès is considered one of the most distinguished Swiss personalities of the early twentieth century. His legacy continues to inspire writers, artists, and intellectuals who value his contributions to literature, art, and journalism.

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Sigismond Thalberg

Sigismond Thalberg (January 8, 1812 Geneva-April 27, 1871 Posillipo) otherwise known as Thalberg, Sigismond was a Swiss pianist, composer and virtuoso.

Discography: The Romantic Piano Concerto, Volume 58: Pixis: Concerto in C major, op. 100 / Concertino in E-flat major, op. 68 / Thalberg: Concerto in F minor, op. 5. Genres: Classical music.

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Hans Wilhelm Auer

Hans Wilhelm Auer (April 26, 1847 Wädenswil-August 30, 1906 Konstanz) also known as Hans Auer was a Swiss architect.

He studied architecture at the Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule (ETH) in Zurich and later worked in Germany and Switzerland. He is known for designing several buildings in the Neo-Renaissance style, including the Hotel Waldhaus in Sils-Maria, Switzerland, and the Kursaal in Merano, Italy. Auer also designed several churches, such as the neo-Gothic Parish Church of St. Georg in Winterthur, Switzerland, and the Catholic Church of St. Vitus in Donaueschingen, Germany. In addition to his work as an architect, Auer also taught at the ETH in Zurich from 1876 to 1879. Today, some of his buildings are considered valuable examples of historic architecture and are protected as cultural heritage sites.

In his early years, Hans Auer worked as an assistant to Gottfried Semper, a renowned architect in Dresden, Germany. During this time, Auer was heavily influenced by Semper's theories on architecture, particularly his belief that form and function should be inextricably linked. Auer later incorporated this principle into his own designs, which often blended traditional architectural styles with modern functionality.

One of Auer's most prominent works is the Hotel Waldhaus in Sils-Maria, Switzerland. Built in the early 20th century, the hotel is a grand example of the Neo-Renaissance style, with ornate stonework, intricate carvings, and a spacious interior that was ahead of its time.

Auer also designed the Kursaal in Merano, Italy, which was a popular social and cultural hub in the late 19th century. This grand building featured an elegant ballroom, theater, and casino, and was a popular destination for wealthy travelers and locals alike.

Throughout his career, Auer remained committed to creating buildings that were not only aesthetically pleasing, but also functional and practical. He believed that architecture should serve the needs of its inhabitants, and his designs reflected this philosophy.

Today, Auer's legacy lives on through his important contributions to the field of architecture. His buildings continue to be admired and studied by architects and historians alike, and his name remains synonymous with quality, craftsmanship, and innovation.

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Lauro Amadò

Lauro Amadò (March 3, 1912 Lugano-June 6, 1971) was a Swiss personality.

He is best known as a writer and a journalist. Amadò began his career as a journalist in 1932 and later worked for several Swiss newspapers. He wrote numerous articles, essays and books on various topics such as politics, culture and social issues.

In addition to writing, Amadò was also involved in politics. He was a member of the Swiss Parliament for the Social Democratic Party from 1951-1959. He later became chairman of the Swiss Writers' Association and was also a member of the Swiss Academy of Humanities and Social Sciences.

Amadò received several awards for his literary and journalistic work, including the Swiss Schiller Prize and the cultural award of the City of Zurich. His most famous work is the novel "The Last of the Rich" (1952), which is considered one of the most important Swiss works of the 20th century.

Amadò died in 1971 at the age of 59, leaving behind a legacy as one of Switzerland's most respected intellectuals.

In his personal life, Lauro Amadò was married to Wallis Frick, a Swiss journalist and writer. Together, they had two children. Despite his success and accolades, Amadò remained humble and dedicated to his work. He was known for his keen observations and critical thinking, which were reflected in his writings. In addition to his literary and political pursuits, Amadò was also interested in music and was an accomplished pianist. His passion for music can be seen in his writing, often incorporating musical themes and motifs in his works. Amadò's influence on Swiss literature and journalism continues to be felt today, and his contributions to the cultural landscape of Switzerland are celebrated and remembered by many.

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Ernst Leonhardt

Ernst Leonhardt (September 25, 1885 Tracy City-March 26, 1945 Oberndorf am Neckar) was a Swiss personality.

Ernst Leonhardt was a Swiss painter, sculptor, and writer. He was known for his Art Deco style and contributed to the development of the movement in Switzerland. Leonhardt's art often depicted scenes from nature, and his work reflected his interest in his surroundings. He also wrote several books on art and culture, which explored the ways that the arts intersect with daily life. Despite living in a turbulent time in history, his work remained largely focused on beauty and peaceful reflection. Unfortunately, Leonhardt died in 1945, just before the end of World War II. Nonetheless, his influence on Swiss art continues to be felt to this day.

In addition to his work as a painter, sculptor, and writer, Ernst Leonhardt was also a skilled music composer and musician. He often incorporated musical motifs into his art, and he was known to perform his compositions live during exhibitions of his work. Leonhardt was also an influential art teacher, serving as a professor at the School of Applied Arts in Zurich for several years. Many of his students went on to become well-known artists in their own right. Leonhardt's legacy as a multi-talented artist and creative thinker continues to inspire new generations of artists and art enthusiasts around the world.

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Friedrich Born

Friedrich Born (June 10, 1903 Langenthal-January 14, 1963 Zollikofen) was a Swiss personality.

He was most notable for his career as a professional cyclist, having competed in several international races including the Tour de France and the Giro d'Italia. Born began his career in the 1920s and quickly gained recognition for his speed and endurance on the track. He went on to win several national and international titles, becoming one of the most successful Swiss cyclists of his time.

After retiring from cycling, Born turned his attention to coaching and worked with several up-and-coming riders to help them achieve success in the sport. He also became involved in sports administration, serving in various leadership roles within Swiss cycling organizations. Beyond his involvement in cycling, Born was known for his philanthropic work and his commitment to social justice issues. He passed away in 1963 at the age of 59.

Born's success in the sport of cycling earned him widespread recognition and acclaim throughout Switzerland and beyond. In addition to his numerous victories, he also set several records during his career, including a Swiss hour record that stood for over two decades. Born was known as a tenacious and dedicated cyclist, often pushing himself to the limits of his physical abilities during races. After retiring from competition, he continued to be involved in cycling through coaching and sports administration. Born was a tireless advocate for the sport and worked to promote cycling at all levels, from grassroots initiatives to the highest levels of international competition. In addition to his sports-related activities, Born was also passionate about social causes, particularly issues related to poverty and inequality. He donated generously to charities and was involved in several philanthropic organizations, using his influence to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Despite his many accomplishments, Born remained humble and focused on the things that truly mattered to him: family, community, and the pursuit of excellence, both on and off the bike.

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Gottfried Schenker

Gottfried Schenker (February 14, 1842 Däniken, Solothurn-November 26, 1901 Vienna) was a Swiss personality.

He was a prominent entrepreneur and founder of Schenker AG, one of the world's leading freight forwarding and logistics companies. Schenker had a strong business acumen and started out in the transportation industry by acquiring a horse-drawn carriage business. He later expanded his business to include railways and founded the Schenker Rail company. Schenker AG grew rapidly and expanded into international markets, establishing offices across Europe, Asia, and the United States. Schenker himself was known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in the field of education and was a patron of the arts. He was also an avid collector of art and antiques, and his collection now forms part of the Wien Museum in Vienna.

As the founder of Schenker AG, Gottfried Schenker played a major role in the development of the modern freight forwarding and logistics industry. He was a visionary and innovator who brought new ideas and technologies to the field, including the use of railway transport as an alternative to traditional road haulage. Under his leadership, Schenker AG became a global brand and leader in the logistics industry.

Despite his success as an entrepreneur, Schenker never forgot the importance of giving back to society. He supported numerous charitable causes and donated generously to educational institutions, including the University of Vienna. Schenker's philanthropic efforts also extended to the arts, and he was a friend and benefactor of many prominent artists and writers of his time.

Schenker was a man of many interests and talents. In addition to his business accomplishments and philanthropic work, he was a skilled linguist and spoke several languages fluently. He was also an accomplished musician and played the violin, which he often performed in public for his friends and associates.

Today, Schenker's legacy lives on through the continued success of Schenker AG, as well as through his contributions to the cultural and educational life of Vienna. His name remains synonymous with excellence, innovation, and philanthropy, and he remains a beloved figure in the business and cultural communities of Vienna and beyond.

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Henri-Frédéric Amiel

Henri-Frédéric Amiel (September 28, 1821 Geneva-May 11, 1881 Geneva) also known as Henri-Frederic Amiel was a Swiss philosopher.

He is best known for his book "Journal Intime" (Intimate Journal), which was published after his death and chronicles his innermost thoughts and reflections on life, love, and the meaning of existence. Amiel was also a professor of aesthetics and literature at the University of Geneva and a prolific writer, having contributed essays, poems, and critiques to various publications throughout his lifetime. He was known for his introspective and melancholic personality, which is reflected in his writings. Amiel's work has been widely translated and continues to inspire readers today.

Amiel was born into a wealthy family and spent much of his youth studying in various European cities including Paris, Berlin, and Rome. He was fluent in several languages, including German, which he spoke and wrote with great proficiency. Despite his privileged upbringing, Amiel struggled with feelings of insecurity and self-doubt, which informed much of his writing.

After completing his studies, Amiel returned to Geneva where he became a popular professor of literature and aesthetics. He was known for his charismatic lectures and was beloved by his students who admired his passion for knowledge and his ability to inspire others. However, Amiel's personal life was marked by tragedy; he never married and was plagued by health problems throughout his life.

Amiel's "Journal Intime" remains one of the most significant works in French-language literature and is celebrated for its honest and introspective portrayal of the human condition. The book has been praised for its poetic language and its ability to capture the minute details of daily life. Amiel's work has been compared to other great introspective writers such as Marcel Proust and Virginia Woolf, and his influence on modern literature remains strong today.

Johann Kaspar Lavater

Johann Kaspar Lavater (November 15, 1741 Zürich-January 2, 1801 Zürich) also known as Johann Caspar Lavater was a Swiss personality.

He was a poet, writer, and theologian who was also known for his work in physiognomy, the practice of determining a person's character and personality based on their physical features. Lavater's interests in theology and philosophy led him to publish numerous books on these subjects, as well as poetry and literary criticism. He also had a great interest in the arts and music, and was a friend and supporter of many prominent artists and musicians of his time. Despite facing controversy and criticism throughout his life, Lavater remained a highly influential and respected figure in Swiss society and beyond, with his work in physiognomy continuing to be studied and discussed to this day.

Lavater was born into a prominent family in Zürich, Switzerland and received a classical education, studying theology and philosophy. He was ordained as a pastor in 1764 and served as a pastor in a number of different cities throughout Switzerland. In addition to his religious work, Lavater was an active participant in the literary and artistic circles of his time, befriending prominent writers and artists such as Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and Henry Fuseli.

Lavater's interest in physiognomy began in the late 1760s, and he soon became one of the leading proponents of the field. His most famous work in this area is "Physiognomische Fragmente zur Beförderung der Menschenkenntnis und Menschenliebe" (Physiognomical Fragments on the Promotion of Human Knowledge and Human Love), published in four volumes between 1775 and 1778. This work used numerous illustrations and descriptions of facial features to argue that a person's character could be deduced from their physical appearance.

Lavater's work in physiognomy led to both popularity and controversy. While many saw him as a pioneer in the field of psychology, others criticized his methods as pseudoscientific and arbitrary. Lavater himself acknowledged that physiognomy was an imperfect and incomplete science, but he remained convinced of its basic premises throughout his life.

Despite his fame, Lavater also faced numerous personal and professional setbacks. He suffered from financial difficulties throughout his life, and his association with radical political groups led to his arrest and imprisonment during the French Revolution. He died in 1801 at the age of 59, leaving behind a legacy as both a theologian and a pioneering figure in the field of psychology.

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Jost Gross

Jost Gross (March 1, 1946 Flawil-May 6, 2005 Waldenburg) was a Swiss politician.

He was a member of the Social Democratic Party of Switzerland and served as a member of the Swiss National Council from 1983 to 1995. During his time in office, he was known for his advocacy of workers' rights and for his efforts to promote gender equality in political and economic spheres. Prior to his political career, Gross worked as a teacher and was actively involved in various community organizations. After leaving politics, he continued to be involved in social justice causes and served as a board member for several non-profit organizations. Throughout his life, Gross remained committed to improving the lives of working-class people and promoting social equality in Switzerland.

He was also a strong environmental advocate and worked to promote sustainable practices in industries throughout Switzerland. Gross was known for his collaborative approach to politics and was often praised for his ability to build bridges between different factions within the Swiss political system. In addition to his political and social justice work, Gross was also an accomplished writer and author. He published several works on politics, economics, and social justice during his lifetime. His legacy as a passionate advocate for workers' rights and social equality continues to inspire people in Switzerland and around the world. After his passing, many tributes were paid to Gross, with members of the Swiss National Council praising his contributions to the betterment of Swiss society.

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Ludwig Hirzel

Ludwig Hirzel (February 23, 1838 Zürich-June 1, 1897 Bern) was a Swiss personality.

He was a historian, politician, and professor of German literature at the University of Bern. Hirzel served as a member of the Swiss National Council and was known for his contributions to the field of Swiss history. He published several works on the history of Switzerland, including "The History of Switzerland from the Earliest Times to the Present Day" and "The Origins of the Swiss Confederation". Hirzel was also involved in the establishment of the Swiss National Museum, which continues to be a major cultural institution in Switzerland to this day. Despite his achievements, many of Hirzel's works were criticized for their conservative and nationalist views on Swiss history.

In addition to his academic and political pursuits, Ludwig Hirzel was also an accomplished journalist. He wrote for various newspapers and magazines, including the Neue Zürcher Zeitung, and was known for his incisive commentary on contemporary events. His writings often focused on the role of Switzerland in European politics and the need to maintain Swiss neutrality. Hirzel was also a supporter of the arts and was involved in the founding of the Bernese Theater. His legacy continues to be felt in Switzerland today, particularly in the fields of history and literature.

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Michel Soutter

Michel Soutter (June 2, 1932 Geneva-September 10, 1991 Geneva) was a Swiss screenwriter and film director.

He is known for being a pioneer of Swiss cinema and for his poetic and introspective style. Soutter began his career in the mid-1950s as a journalist and film critic before transitioning to filmmaking. His first feature film, "La Pointe-Courte" (1954), was inspired by the French New Wave and garnered critical acclaim. Soutter went on to direct several more films, including "Les Arpenteurs" (1972) and "James ou pas" (1975), which earned him widespread recognition. His films often explored themes of alienation, solitude, and the search for personal meaning. Soutter was also known for his innovative use of sound, music, and camera movements. Despite his relatively short career, Soutter left a lasting impact on Swiss cinema and is remembered as one of its most influential figures.

Soutter also had an interest in theater and directed a few plays, including Samuel Beckett's "En attendant Godot" in Geneva in the 1960s. In addition to his work as a filmmaker, Soutter was a respected writer and published novels and essays throughout his career. He was also an active member of the Swiss film industry and served as the president of the Swiss Film Directors Association. Soutter's works continue to be revered by cinephiles and he remains an important figure in the history of Swiss cinema.

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