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Spanish pianist and composer renowned for his nationalist works inspired by Iberian folk traditions. Child prodigy pianist who debuted at age four. Studied at Madrid, Leipzig, and Brussels conservatories. Composed stage works, songs, and iconic piano suites like 'Iberia'. Died from kidney disease at 48.

• Ran away from home at age 12 to perform concerts across Americas alone, supporting himself through piano playing in brothels and bars.
• Falsified his age to enter Madrid Conservatory at 7 after failing admission at 6; expelled for pranks but readmitted under his father's influence.
• After meeting composer Felipe Pedrell in 1883, shifted focus from salon music to Spanish nationalist compositions.
• His magnum opus 'Iberia' (1905-1908), written while terminally ill, revolutionized piano technique with unprecedented complexity inspired by flamenco rhythms.
• Died from Bright's disease (chronic nephritis) in French Pyrenees, buried in Barcelona's Montjuïc Cemetery.