MusiLLection

Niccolò Paganini, the legendary violinist whose virtuosity inspired fascination, admiration, and enduring myth. Few figures in music history have been surrounded by as much legend, fascination, and misunderstanding as Niccolò Paganini . Partly due to the reluctance of many to accept truly exceptional talent, and partly because of his striking, almost Mephistophelean appearance, Paganini quickly became the subject of myth. His violin playing seemed so transcendent that audiences preferred supernatural explanations to human genius. The legend, however, tells us as much about the era as it does about the man. Paganini’s technique appeared insurmountable, not only because of its difficulty, but because of the theatrical intensity with which it was presented. On stage, he was an illusionist; off stage, an ordinary human being, with virtues, weaknesses, and a quietly sensitive nature. What truly set Paganini apart was not mere virtuosity, but invention. He extended violin technique beyond...