Juan Crisóstomo Arriaga

Juan Crisóstomo Arriaga, born in Bilbao on January 27, 1806, was a Spanish Basque composer whose prodigious talent earned him the nickname "the Spanish Mozart." A child prodigy, Arriaga composed his first opera, "Los esclavos felices," at the tender age of fourteen. His musical genius was tragically cut short when he passed away at just twenty years old, leaving behind a legacy of stunning works. Among his notable compositions are his three string quartets, which showcase his remarkable skill and maturity as a composer. Despite his brief life, Arriaga's contributions to classical music remain celebrated, offering a glimpse into what could have been a truly extraordinary career.