On this day iconic countertenor David Daniels (not pictured) turns 50! 

Born on this day in 1710 composer Thomas Augustine Arne.

On this day in 1857 Verdi’s Simon Boccanegra premiered in Venice.

Born on this day in 1863 writer Gabriele D’Annunzio.

Born on this day in 1888 conductor Hans Knappertsbusch.

Born on this day in 1925 soprano Helga Pilarczyk.

Born on this day in 1926 bass-baritone Zoltán Kelemen.

Happy 81st birthday director John Cox.

Happy 79th birthday soprano Elizabeth Vaughan.

Born on this day in 1939 tenor Veriano Luchetti.

Happy 57th birthday soprano Catherine Dubosc.

Happy birthday barihunk Chris Bolduc.