Niccolo Paganini (1782–1840) was perhaps the most influential violinist of all time. Besides playing so flawlessly as to be accused of witchcraft, he was a natural showman and innovator.
Techniques such as left-hand pizzicato and artificial harmonics, which he perfected, dazzled audiences. His feats were legendary, such as intentionally snapping strings mid-performance to shock listeners, turning difficult pieces into nigh-impossible ones. He gained a cult following, earning a place in musical history as the very first violin superstar.
