Frédéric Chopin was a Polish composer and virtuoso pianist, born on March 1, 1810, in Żelazowa Wola, Poland. He is best known for his solo piano works, which include nocturnes, études, and waltzes. Chopin's music is characterized by its emotional depth and technical brilliance, making him one of the most significant composers of the Romantic era. Chopin moved to Paris in 1831, where he became part of a vibrant artistic community that included other notable figures like Franz Liszt and George Sand. He composed many of his masterpieces during this time, and his influence on piano music is profound, inspiring countless musicians and composers, including Claude Debussy and Sergei Rachmaninoff. Chopin passed away on October 17, 1849, but his legacy endures.