A pianist of international renown, Maria Canals performed in all the major European capitals. Her career as a professional performer began in 1940, and her appearances at the Palau de la Música Catalana following her first solo recital two years later were particularly noteworthy. She was the driving force behind the Ars Nova Music Academy and the Maria Canals Competition to promote musical education, and created the Maria Canals International Music Competition with the aim of nurturing the talent of the new generations. The people of Barcelona are well aware of the “open pianos” to be found in public spaces around the city during the competition. In 1990, the Generalitat de Catalunya awarded her the Creu de Sant Jordi. The Passeig de Gràcia stop is close to the Academia de Música Ars Nova, located at Gran Vía de les Corts Catalanes, 654.
An internationally renowned pianist, she performed in the leading cities around Europe. She was a driving force behind the Ars Nova Music Academy and the Maria Canals Contest to promote talented new artists.