Paganini, Master of Strings

Great Musicians

by Opal Wheeler, Henry S. Gillette (Illustrator)

Written with warmth and understanding, the present book on Paganini begins with his unhappy childhood along the wharves in Genoa and carries him straight through the tempestuous years when great genius and poverty waged an endless battle, which genius finally won. The boy gave his first concert at eleven, and his success was immediate and brilliant. The later years, however, were given over almost entirely to composing. His compositions were so exquisite and intricate that they became the despair of other musicians, as often only the master was able to play them. Added to a delightful story are some of Paganini's simpler compositions for the young music student to try. It is altogether a perfect biography for the younger group, full of action and exciting adventure, too.

Genres: Music, Biography

162 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1950

Reviews

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

The kids and I found this biography quite engaging, as is typically the case with Opal Wheeler's writing. The connection to a pet rabbit named Paganini within a series of audiobooks (Karina Yan Glaser's Vanderbeekers series) was also quite fun.

[Havebooks Willread · Rating 4 out of 5]

Engaging biography of the famous composer and violinist. The children enjoyed it very much.

[Casey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read aloud to go along with our composer study for this term. I look forward to reading more by Wheeler.

[Josh]

Engaging story-telling and lovely writing about Nicolo Paganini's life, violin playing, music-making and travelling around Europe meeting other composers and musicians, dignatories and royalty.
Great book for kids aged maybe 7 to early teens, irrespective of whether they're studying music or an instrument.