Camille Saint-Saëns was a French composer, pianist, and organist born on October 9, 1835. He is best known for his contributions to classical music, including symphonies, concertos, and operas. His most famous work, The Carnival of the Animals, showcases his ability to blend humor and musical innovation. Saint-Saëns was a child prodigy, performing publicly at a young age. He studied at the Paris Conservatoire and became a prominent figure in the music scene of the late 19th century. He passed away on December 16, 1921, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of classical music.