Emmanuel Chabrier was a French Romantic composer and pianist who defied his bourgeois family's wishes by immersing himself in music despite studying law. His compositions, influenced by the vibrant artistic scene of Paris, exhibit a distinctive style. Notable for works like España and Joyeuse marche, he's celebrated for his operas, songs, and piano pieces. Chabrier's lack of formal training allowed him to create an individual musical language, inspiring future innovators. Associating with writers and painters like Édouard Manet, he left a legacy of artistic connections.