Niccolo Paganini

[Scootaloo]

Okay, so I really really like classical music, mainly because it is the best there is, in my opinion. It is really good musically, and most of the composers were Christians, and some of them (like Vivaldi) were even priests!

But there was one composer who caught me by surprise. I listened to his music, and I was enthralled, but something felt... Off.

I speak of Niccolo Paganini, the virtuoso violinist. He was popular from the 1790's to about 1830, and he was considered one of the best violinists of all time. However, most people thought that he got so good by making a deal with Lucifer. The Church excommunicated him, and even when he was offered forgiveness on his deathbed, he sent the priests away.

Was he in league with the Devil? If he was, it would explain why his music is so attractive: to lead people away from God. If he wasn't, then either way, his music is good.

What do you guys think?

 

[Mike]

Thank you, Scootaloo. I've never heard of him before. This thread prompted me to search his name on youtube, and I found this.

[video=youtube;iSnvjx9D-iU]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iSnvjx9D-iU[/video]

It sounds like he was the victim of spiritual hysteria by many who couldn't believe anyone but the devil could make the sounds he made from his violin. It also sounds like he had a bit of a reckless lifestyle, but he was an excellent violinist.

Very interesting. Thanks again! You learn something new everyday! :yes

 

[Classik]

That guys is good! Wow! The best (with a satanic talent? I doubt).

 

[taikina]

so much parallels to modern rock-stardom. i think he's wicked(in the most positive sense of the word)