h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Jean-Pierre Rampal died today ( 20th May )following a heart attack at his Paris home.
He was born in 1922 and soon became an influencial figure in the world of music. He was the first musician to establish the flute as a virtuoso instrument, putting it on a par with the piano and strings. He was best known for championing the cause of Baroque music, although his repertoire also included Jazz, English Folk Songs and Japanese Classical music.
He also gained international recogmition as a conductor, although his first love was always the flute. As a flute player and teacher I have much to be grateful to him for!
shazzPRME

Hi Shazz. One of my favourite recordings is 'Sakura, Japanese melodies for flute and harp' by Jean-Pierre Rampal and Lily Laskine. He was to the flute what Glen Gould was to the piano: a genius who turned his instrument into a living thing. Sad that he has gone.

JTG

Thank you... it is good to know that someone else appreciated all he did!
shazzPRME