Nicholas Makaroff  Russian noble and virtuoso guitarist. Makaroff left behind his fascinating Memoirs of Makaroff which are essential reading for anyone studying 19th century guitar. His music was extraordinarily demanding, nearly unplayable. Makaroff preferred the 8-string and later 10-string instrument. He is most famous for having a composer's contest, at which Mertz was awarded first prize post-humously, and Coste second prize.