1959 Death Billy Mayerl, composer, pianist, master of light music, composed works for piano and orchestra, developed syncopated novelty piano solos, 300 piano pieces, most named after flowers and trees, dies at 56 1902 Birthday Billy Mayerl, born in London, England, composer, pianist, master of light music, composed works for piano and orchestra, developed syncopated novelty piano solos, 300 piano pieces, most named after flowers and trees