[Harp-L] vituosity

[SONNYTONE@xxxxxxx]

Much time spent on this subject. I remember the same issue brought up about 
my mentor, Sonny Terry. If he was not a virtuoso in every right, then I might 
as well put my harp down now. To start long conversations about a word and who 
fits within that word, seems like it should be left for the classroom. The 
playing field of music, just my opinion, is who inspires, who makes you Feel the 
music they are playing, not just hear it, and if someone can make the hair 
stand up on your arms like Sonny did as I stood beside him trying to keep up, 
then to me that is what is important. Someone like Robert Bonfiglio who while 
playing the exact notes of a classic piece expresses emotion, and yes, Stevie 
Wonder in my opinion had that same effect on me, as did Lee Oskar, whom I have 
had the pleasure of feeling his soul while we played together. Anyone at the 
2000 Masterclass who was part of that experience, that is what music is. It was 
me saying, Hey Lee, let's do something together. Sure he said, nothing worked 
out, I just laid down a rythm and he played some insanely beautiful melodies 
over it. I honestly don't remember one note or anything about it, it just 
happened. I never put myself in that category or even think I am close, but I have 
played with greatness, and virtuousos. Life's too short, play fellows, play 
till it hurts. Sonny Jr.