Today in History and Celebrity Birthdays

Today in Music History for Nov. 12: In 1818, English church organist and composer Henry Hemy was born. Of his several original compositions, the best known is the tune "St. Catherine," to which is commonly sung the hymn "Faith of Our Fathers.

Today in Music History for Nov. 16: In 1908, conductor Arturo Toscanini made his debut with the New York Metropolitan Opera with a performance of Verdi's "Aida.

Today in Music History for Nov. 13: In 1937, NBC formed the first full-sized symphony orchestra exclusively for radio broadcasting. Network chief David Sarnoff lured Arturo Toscanini out of retirement in Italy to head the orchestra.

Today in Music History for Nov. 15: In 1920, the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra made its debut at the Plantages Theatre under the direction of Alberta Weaver Winston. The orchestra folded in 1932, but a second Edmonton Symphony was formed in 1952.

Today in Music History for Nov. 14: In 1900, American composer Aaron Copland, famed for using jazz and folk tunes in his works, was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. His many ballets include "Billy the Kid," "Rodeo" and "Appalachian Spring.

Today in Music History for Nov. 10: In 1916, Canadian contralto Marguerite Paquet was born in Quebec City.

Today in History for Nov. 12: In 1774, British citizens in Quebec protested the Quebec Act which restored French civil law. In 1856, the Grand Trunk Railway was opened from Quebec to Toronto. In 1884, Calgary became a town.

Today in History for Nov. 15: On this date: In 1280, German theologian and music theorist Albertus Magnus died. Magnus taught famed philosopher Thomas Aquinas. In 1492, Christopher Columbus noted in his journal the use of tobacco among the Indians.

Today in History for Nov. 10: In 1483, Martin Luther, the Augustinian monk who became the founder and leader of the German Reformation, was born in Eisleben, Saxony. In 1775, the U.S.

Today in History for Nov. 16: On this date: In 1686, Britain and France signed the Treaty of Neutrality governing possession in North America in the event of war in Europe.