Recommended Music

Spanish Classical Music

Three major composers stand out, two of whom were Catalans: Camprodón-born Isaac Albeñiz -- a child prodigy who played in piano concerts at the age of 4 -- with his Iberia suite and Enrique Granados from Lérida (now Lleida) with his lively Goyescas. Manuel de Falla, an ascetic from Andaluz (an unusual combination) was renowned for his Three Cornered Hat ballet.

The most talented Catalan musician of modern times was cellist Pablo (Pau) Casals; while one of today's leading opera singers (alongside Placido Domingo) is Josep Carreras. Barcelona's very own Montserrat Caballé is Spain's most loved soprano.