Françaix, who came from a musical family, began his study of composition in Paris with Nadia Boulanger, who continued the tradition of neo-classicism inaugurated by Stravinsky. But besides Stravinsky, Françaix was primarily fascinated by Mozart, Schubert, Ravel and Chabrier, whose works he assiduously studied. Among the special characteristics of Françaix?s music, which for all its modernity is immediately understandable, are the composer?s occupation and his refined-nonchalant treatment of a wide variety of epochs and musical styles. Françaix, who has written pieces for the most unusual combinations and almost every instrument in every genre, loves surprises, wit and jokes. His music, the ballets, operas, solo concerti, orchestral and chamber music works, possesses a spirited lightness and creativity which evokes pure delight on the part of the listener.