RE: [Harp-L] Virtuosity

["Steve Shaw" <moorcot@xxxxxxx>]

I don't even know whether there's any such thing as a virtuoso, and even if 
there is I wouldn't like to be the one to have to write the definition.  One 
thing I do know is that there's more to it than being a consummate master of 
technique.  My son, now aged 24, is a very talented guitarist, (though, 
lamentably, he has yet to find an outlet for his playing).  He was taught by 
a well-known classical guitarist/lutenist through his school years.  Once, 
his teacher organised a "masterclass" which was taken by an eminent 
Hungarian classical guitarist.  I was sitting in on this when it was my 
son's turn to come under the "master's" scrutiny.  My son duly played his 
prepared piece, rather well I thought at the time.  But, just as he finished 
the piece, the "master" seized the guitar and said in broken English: "you 
played the notes very very well.  But now I show you how to play music..."

That evening the Hungarian played a concert for all the pupils and parents.  
The music-making was sublime, and not once did I think about the guy's 
"technique."  My son is now into Radiohead and Red Hot Chili Peppers 
big-time, but he still talks affectionately about that day.

Steve

http://mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk/trad_irish_harmonica

Steve's CD of mostly traditional Irish,  "Blowing Through The Reeds,"  is 
now available!  Hear clips at http://www.gjk2.com/steveshaw/cd.htm

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