Valentina and the internet

[gooddog]

Until now, there has been a traditional route to becoming a successful concert pianist: winning competitions, getting a famous teacher, booking concerts, getting a manager, making recordings, etc.

To my knowledge, Valentina Lisitsa is the first virtuoso to heavily use the internet to promote herself and it seems she has a tremendously devoted following. I've been watching the live broadcasts of Valentina practicing. I've watched some Youtube performances and interviews. The internet is allowing Valentina to appear approachable, hardworking, warm and unassuming. I have to admit, I like and admire that.

The phenomena of the internet is affecting our lives in endless ways and it is not going to go away. What are you thoughts on how the internet will affect promotion of musicians in the future? Do you think the it will dilute or improve the quality of musicians? Do you approve of it as a way to achieve fame or do you feel it is necessary to adhere to the traditional route? (BTW, I think a "how good is she?" thread is another discussion. )

Regards,
Deborah

[damon]

Jun 29, 2010 20:21:20 GMT -5 gooddog said:

The phenomena of the internet is affecting our lives in endless ways and it is not going to go away. What are you thoughts on how the internet will affect promotion of musicians in the future? Do you think the it will dilute or improve the quality of musicians? Do you approve of it as a way to achieve fame or do you feel it is necessary to adhere to the traditional route? (BTW, I think a "how good is she?" thread is another discussion. )

Regards,
Deborah

I hate to guess the future because politicians and lawyers are clamoring to regulate the internet as we speak. Who knows if it will even be possible to use the internet in the same way for much longer. In the meantime, I applaud her success in the medium.

[thepianist]

The internet is already becoming a huge part of how people listen to music and watch TV and movies. Look at the massive success of the iTunes Store, as well as the colossal number of iPods and iPhones that Apple moves every year.