In the art of violin music, Henryk Wieniawski has a unique place. First and foremost, as a genius virtuoso widely viewed as the reincarnation of Nicola Paganini by contemporary reviewers and music fans. Second, as a composer whose compositions have endured the test of time and have a prominent place in the violin literature as well as the repertoires of many of the world's leading violinists. Third, as a professor at two of Europe's most prestigious music schools. Finally, as a flamboyant and exciting individual. Henryk made incredible improvement on the violin, and at the age of seven, he gave his first solo public performance. His new profession needed rigorous research, which was difficult in Poland at the time due to the Partitions tearing the nation apart. It is no coincidence that the most prominent representatives of Polish society ended up in exile, primarily in France. Henryk, eight years old, and his mother arrived in France in the autumn of 1843 with the aim of learning music at Europe's premier music academy, the Paris Conservatoire. Regrettably, the Conservatoire's statutes proved to be an insurmountable barrier: it only admitted students aged twelve and up, and even then, only French nationals. Henryk was given an exemption after extensive attempts on his behalf. Wieniawski was admitted as number 468 on the Conservatoire's pupils' registry on November 28, 1843, by special order.