Three For the Ages

by Rick Hutt
(Chicago, IL)

1. John Williams - Total musician, not simply a great guitarist, which he is, but a consummate artist. Fearlessly explores so many types of guitar music and combinations. Also opened up a lot of previously, or limitedly unknown, best example being Barrios.

2. Paco de Lucia - Classical? Yeah, I believe so. He did a great recording of "Concierto de Aranjuez" which showed his classical sensibilities. But taking flamenco into new and exciting directions counts, in my opinion, as providing avenues of exploring classical music with a renewed eye as to interpretation.

3. Sharon Isbin - Great technician and musician. Also major contributions in teaching. Like the above two, not afraid to enter into other combinations without sacrificing a note.