Niccolò Paganini

An Italian virtuoso violinist, guitarist, and composer of chamber and orchestral music featuring violin and guitar. Paganini revolutionized the art of violin playing (his Concerto no. 1 in D gives some idea of his incredible technique), even as he was surrounded by gossip, often self-promoted, about amorous affairs in Napoleon's court; being supported in his teens by an older mistress (her identity still unknown), who saved him from self-destructive drinking brought on by quick fame; a pact made with the devil that gave him superhuman ability to play his instrument; and so on. ~ Blue Gene Tyranny, All Music Guide