Niccolò Paganini (October 27, 1782 – May 27, 1840) was an Italian violinist, violist, guitarist, [bad word]  He was one of the most celebrated violin virtuosi of his time, and left his mark as one of the pillars of modern violin technique. His caprice in minor, Op. 1 No. 24 is among his best known [bad word]  and serves as inspiration for many prominent artists.