7 May

Born in 1831, British architect Norman Shaw.

Above: Design for a church: exterior perspective and interior perspective, c. 1864

Also, born in 1833, German pianist and composer Johannes Brahms.

In my study I can lay my hand on the Bible in the pitch dark. All truly inspired ideas come from God. The powers from which all truly great composers like Mozart, Schubert, Bach and Beethoven drew their inspirations is the same power that enabled Jesus to do his miracles.

And also, in 1840, Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.

Undoubtedly I should have gone mad but for music. Music is indeed the most beautiful of all Heaven's gifts to humanity wandering in the darkness. Alone it calms, enlightens, and stills our souls. It is not the straw to which the drowning man clings; but a true friend, refuge, and comforter, for whose sake life is worth living.

Previously on May 7, Gary Cooper and David Hume.