virtuos

Virtuos is an English plural form used to refer to individuals with exceptional technical mastery, especially in music. It is far less common than the standard plurals virtuosos and virtuosi, the latter being the Italian-derived plural used in English. The term denotes performers who demonstrate extraordinary command of their instrument or craft and can render difficult repertoire with fluency and expressive nuance.

Etymology: Virtuoso comes from Italian virtù meaning virtue or skill, with the -oso suffix forming a noun for a person. The sense of a master performer emerged in the 17th and 18th centuries and spread to other arts.

Usage: In classical music, a virtuoso is expected to display speed, precision, tonal control, and interpretive insight. The term can also extend to other disciplines, including dance, acting, or chess, where a performer or player shows exceptional technical mastery. The label is descriptive rather than a formal certification, and the degree of virtuosity is often a matter of critical opinion.

Notable practitioners: Many renowned musicians are described as virtuosi, such as violinists Itzhak Perlman, Jascha Heifetz, and Gidon Kremer; pianists Lang Lang and Martha Argerich; cellist Yo-Yo Ma.

The term can also be applied to non-musical figures regarded as masters of their field. Note: Virtuos as a plural is uncommon and might be encountered in older texts or as a simplified form; modern usage generally favors virtuosi or virtuosos.