Ponce, Manuel Maria (1882-1948 Mexico)
Manuel Maria Ponce Cuellar was one of the greatest composers of the 20th century and Andres Segovia's favourite one. Many of his compositions are strongly influenced by the harmonies and form of traditional songs.
He was born in Fresnillo, Zacatecas, but he lived the first 15 years of his life in he city of Aguascalientes. Since he was still very young, about 4 years old, Ponce showed signs of great talent and inspiration in music and his parents had him receive classes in piano and musical notation.
Apart from Mexico, Ponce also studied music in Italy and in Germany. In 1909 he returned to Mexico to teach the piano. In 1947 he received the National Science and Arts Prize. He died in 1948 in Mexico City.
