A Few Thoughts

by William Morris
(Modesto, California)

1. Julian Bream: Mr. Bream has a vast volume of work and his contribution to guitar and lute cannot be denied. His playing exhibits the finest qualities that set him above many of his contemporaries.

His interpretations of a plethora of music are enough to raise him to "legend status." He plays with pure emotion and his tone and touch leave me breathless; the finest in my humble opinion.

2. John Williams: Like Mr. Bream John Williams has made a significant contribution to the instrument--also composing and venturing beyond classical guitar into different styles further promoting tasteful and artistic music.

He brought attention to Barrios with his wonderful album bringing attention the this great composer.

3. Kazuhito Yamashita: Although somewhat controversial--Yamashita has taken on any challenge that a guitarist could imagine--breaking boundaries and never looking back.

Clearly he is truly artistic; nonetheless, he can play anything from Bach to his own transcriptions and arrangements of"Pictures at an Exhibition", Stravinsky's "Firebird Suite."

His has dazzling technique and can get his message out with soulful and sweet emotion as well. He raised the level of guitar playing and like him or not is a pioneer who cannot be ignored.