Niccolo Paganini Quotes & Sayings

I am not handsome, but when women hear me play, they come crawling to my feet. — Niccolo Paganini

Now I am a genius; before that I was a drudge. — Niccolo Paganini

The variations I've composed on the graceful Neapolitan ditty, 'Oh Mamma, Mama Cara,' outshine everything. I can't describe it — Niccolo Paganini

I love the guitar for its harmony; it is my constant companion in all my travels. — Niccolo Paganini

On December 12, 1829, Paganini wrote his friend Germi: "The variations I've composed on the graceful Neapolitan ditty, 'Oh Mamma, Mama Cara,' outshine everything. I can't describe it!" He was writing from Karlsruhe, in the midst of his triumphal tour through Germany. That letter marks the earliest known mention of the variations that would become famous as "The Carnival of Venice." At the time of his letter, Paganini had already performed the piece in at least four concerts. From then on, it would be one of his most popular compositions. — Niccolo Paganini