Re: [Harp-L] Virtuosity




I think you have to set the bar very high for virtuoso status. IMO a virtuoso attains that
status via the universal acknowledgment of his musical peers and also of the general public that
he is at least the best alive and possibly the best ever. If there's significant debate on the
subject, then he doesn't qualify.

Your bar is pretty high too. I like your definition except some exceptional artists remain unknow. Although if you're the best alive you should be know by a good many. Also your definition may alow someone like Eminem to be called a virtuoso, I think a lot of people would have a problem with that. Then what about Little Walter? Stevie Ray Vaughan? Can virtuoso's be by style or instrument or can you only certain styles of music have virtuosos? Are rappers and blues enthousiasts allowed to have virtuosos? You suggested the "best alive and possibly the best ever", that also might fit Eminem (I don't know rappers much).


Perhaps your definition just needs to be refined a bit to exclude unwanted artists i.e. at least rappers ;-). I guess were trying to set firm boundaries on a idea.

Pierre.







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