Giacomo Puccini was an Italian composer born in 1858 in Lucca, Italy. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest opera composers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Puccini's works, including "La Bohème," "Tosca," and "Madama Butterfly," are known for their emotional intensity and lush melodies. His ability to blend music with drama and create realistic characters in his operas earned him worldwide acclaim. Puccini's legacy continues to influence opera composers and performers to this day. He passed away in 1924, leaving behind a rich and enduring musical legacy.