JS Bach once wrote a cantata  (an arrangement for voices and orchestra) inspired by his love of good coffee.

Mozart kept a pet starling.

Doctors trying to cure Beethoven’s deafness once suggested he take daily baths in the river at the bottom of his garden.

Giacomo Puccini, the composer of operas like Madame Butterfly and La Boheme, loved driving speedboats. His interest in modern technology led to him becoming Thomas Edison’s pen pal.

Scott Joplin performed at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. His success there helped to make ragtime piano one of the most popular styles of music in turn-of-the-century America.

Buddy Holly’s breakout hit “Peggy Sue” was originally called Cindy Lou.

Elvis Presley had an identical twin brother, but he died shortly after birth.