Niccolò Paganini turned the violin into a dazzling stage spectacle. His speed, harmonics and tricks seemed impossible to audiences. Many believed demonic powers were at work. He cultivated the image with his gaunt figure and black clothes. His Caprices remain a test for every serious violinist. They inspired pianists like Liszt to become showmen too. The modern idea of the touring virtuoso star largely begins with him. His favourite violin, 'Il Cannone', is still kept in Genoa.
Key Milestones
1817: Completes the 24 Caprices
1828: Triumphs in Vienna
1831: Tours Paris and London
1834: Commissions Berlioz's Harold in Italy
Niccolò (or Nicolò) Paganini (Italian:; 27 October 1782 – 27 May 1840) was an Italian violinist, guitarist and composer. He was the most celebrated violin virtuoso of his time, and left his mark as one of the pillars of modern violin technique.
Niccolò Paganini's birthday is October 27. He was born on October 27, 1782 in Genoa, Italy.
How old was Niccolò Paganini when he died?
Niccolò Paganini died on May 17, 1840, aged 57.
Who shares a birthday with Niccolò Paganini?
Famous people who share Niccolò Paganini's October 27 birthday include Theodore Roosevelt, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Abu Bakr, Sylvia Plath and Roberto Benigni.
