Niccolò Paganini was considered the first great 'star' of instrumental music, akin to modern rock stars, capable of inducing collective hysteria and influencing generations.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Paganini understood the importance of self-promotion, using rumors and gossip to build an aura of mystique around himself.
Instruments
Gabriele Pieranunzi plays a Ferdinando Gagliano violin from 1762, formerly owned by Gioconda de Vito, which was kindly provided by the Pro Canale Onlus Foundation.
Historical Context
The Real Teatro di San Carlo in Naples, whose orchestra members form the Ensemble Archi del Teatro San Carlo di Napoli, is the oldest European opera house, opened on November 4, 1737.
Compositional Technique
Paganini transformed the violin into an 'orchestra of multiple voices and timbral experimentation,' pushing the limits of what a single instrument could do.
Album & Artwork
This album features both original versions of Paganini's works and new transcriptions by Francesco Fiore and Salvatore Lombardo.
Performer Biography
Gabriele Pieranunzi, the solo violinist on this recording, won prestigious awards at the Paganini Competition in Genoa and the Tibor Varga in Sion.
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