Throughout his long life, Frederic Mompou never overcame his introverted personality, his public appearances as a pianist of phenomenal skill only taking place before friends or in small recital rooms. Born in Barcelona, his mother was of French origin, and it was to be the music of that country that influenced his considerable catalogue of works. He combined this with an affection for Catalan culture, and the folk music of that region. The result was a series of works of immediate appeal, the easy-going melodies providing a ready access to the music. Among his works for solo piano, the twelve Préludes, composed through much of his life, feature among his finest scores.