ABSTRACT
The purpose of this chapter is to provide a more complete picture of the artistic impact that violin virtuose had on audiences and critics. By examining the ideals of virtuosic masculinity extolled in most reviews of nineteenth-century violin virtuosity and the most popular image of a heroic, even ‘demonic’ virtuoso, this chapter discusses specific challenges violin virtuose faced at the dawn of the twentieth century as ‘angelic’ counterparts. It also suggests that the enduring legacy of virtuosos can be seen not only in the development of violin technique and literature but also in shaping the image of a powerful and potent master, thereby highlighting their importance as highly favourable models for critics and audiences.
