Ruggiero Leoncavallo was an Italian composer, best known for his opera Pagliacci, which premiered in 1892. Born on April 23, 1857, in Naples, he studied music at the Conservatorio di San Pietro a Majella. Leoncavallo's work is characterized by its emotional depth and dramatic storytelling, often reflecting the struggles of everyday life. In addition to Pagliacci, Leoncavallo composed several other operas, including I Medici and Zaza. His contributions to the verismo movement in opera emphasized realism and the portrayal of ordinary people. Leoncavallo passed away on August 22, 1919, leaving a lasting impact on the world of classical music.