Musician and composer Nikos Skaltotas (1904-1949) did not have the chance to enjoy professional recognition during his short life. In his work, he managed to combine his classical and folk influences with his variations on the 12-verse scheme. He graduated from the Athens Conservatory as a violin virtuoso and won the gold medal for his performance. He continued his studies in Berlin and returned to Athens after a separation. His return to his home country was not as he expected it to be. The musical establishment never accepted him into their circles, and this professional isolation resulted in him freelancing as a violin player. Towards the end of his life, his marriage to pianist Maria Pagali resulted in two children who distinguished themselves in painting and chess.