Re: [Harp-L] Virtuosity

[Pierre <slavio@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

> 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.