What was the nationality of the composer Carl Nielsen (pictured)?

Carl Nielsen (1865-1931) is generally regarded as being the greatest Danish composer. He was also a noted violinist and conductor.

Whilst many artists may claim to come from humble backgrounds, in Nielsen's case it was the absolute truth. He was one of twelve children born on the island of Funen, and his father was a house painter. Nielsen senior was, however, a talented musician, and fostered a love of it in his son, who initially played in a military band (in the brass section). However, he preferred the violin, and was lucky to gain the patronage of the director of the Royal Academy in Copenhagen. However, he was no high-flying prodigy, and initially regarded as competent and diligent rather than outstanding. He did not achieve fame until later in life, when he composed 6 highly regarded symphonies (probably his most famous works outside his homeland) as well as concerti, cantatas, and operatic works, where he determinedly rebelled against the Wagnerian style that was still the major influence in opera. His own two most famous operatic works are very different - one akin to an oratorio, based on the Biblical story of Saul and David, and the other, "Maskerade", a comedy.

Amongst various posthumous accolades, he has featured on a bank note, and had a minor planet named after him!