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Portuguese Waltzes, book, Art Stoyles

Tom

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Just read “The Portuguese Waltzes” short story on Hoopla. About a Newfoundland busker who learned the waltzes from the Portuguese cod fishermen back in the day (or so the story goes). A charming read. His name is (was?) Art Stoyles. Recommended if you like this kind of rabbit hole thing.

Just as an aside. Remember in the old days when the search engines used to return what you are actually searching for, rather than what they think you mean, or what, more likely is “promoted?” Art Stoyles, for example brings up art styles and more to wade through before the actual person. Ah, life was so much simpler in the 2010s. Just sayin, rant over.

 
]]]Just as an aside. Remember in the old days when the search engines used to return what you are actually searching for, rather than what they think you mean, or what, more likely is “promoted?” Art Stoyles, for example brings up art styles and more to wade through before the actual person. Ah, life was so much simpler in the 2010s. Just sayin, rant over.[[[

Technology critic and theorist Cory Doctorow has dubbed this phenomenon the "enshittification" of online services such as search engines, Amazon purchasing search functions, Youtube and Tik-Tok, etc. The idea is, the corporate owners get users hooked on the efficiency and utility. After which, as the sun rises in the East and sets in the West, inexorably they substitute their own promotional algorithms to shove trashy products as search results at the gullible. Thereby utterly degrading and debasing the once-serviceable engine or site.





 
]]]Just as an aside. Remember in the old days when the search engines used to return what you are actually searching for, rather than what they think you mean, or what, more likely is “promoted?” Art Stoyles, for example brings up art styles and more to wade through before the actual person. Ah, life was so much simpler in the 2010s. Just sayin, rant over.[[[

Technology critic and theorist Cory Doctorow has dubbed this phenomenon the "enshittification" of online services such as search engines, Amazon purchasing search functions, Youtube and Tik-Tok, etc. The idea is, the corporate owners get users hooked on the efficiency and utility. After which, as the sun rises in the East and sets in the West, inexorably they substitute their own promotional algorithms to shove trashy products as search results at the gullible. Thereby utterly degrading and debasing the once-serviceable engine or site.





Exactly!
 
I've been using ChatGPT for my initial searches. Below is an example:

You
tell me about Art Stoyles


ChatGPT
Art Stoyles (1933–2013) was a renowned Canadian accordion player, best known for his mastery of traditional Newfoundland and Irish music. Born in England, Stoyles moved to Newfoundland, Canada, where he became an iconic figure in the province's rich musical landscape.
Stoyles was particularly celebrated for his ability to play lively jigs, reels, and hornpipes, contributing significantly to the preservation and celebration of Newfoundland's folk music heritage. His playing style was distinguished by its vivacity and the emotional depth he brought to traditional tunes, making them resonate with audiences both within and beyond Newfoundland.
Throughout his career, Art Stoyles played at numerous festivals, pubs, and events, sharing stages with many other folk musicians and becoming a mentor to younger generations interested in traditional music. He was known not only for his musical talents but also for his warm personality and willingness to share his knowledge and love for music with others.
Stoyles also contributed to several recordings that captured the essence of Newfoundland folk music, ensuring that the traditional sounds of the island would be preserved for future generations. His work has been recognized as a vital part of Canada's cultural heritage, highlighting the importance of folk music in understanding the country's diverse cultural fabric.
Despite his passing, Art Stoyles's legacy lives on through his recordings, the many musicians he influenced, and the continued popularity of Newfoundland folk music. His contributions to Canadian music have been celebrated by both peers and fans, securing his place as a beloved figure in the country's musical history.



You
discography


ChatGPT
As of my last update in April 2023, there wasn't a widely documented comprehensive discography for Art Stoyles available online. Art Stoyles was known for his performances and contributions to Newfoundland and Irish traditional music, particularly on the accordion, and he did make recordings during his career. However, specific albums and recordings might not be as extensively catalogued as those of more commercially prominent artists.
Stoyles's contributions often came in the form of collaborations with other musicians or appearances on compilations of Newfoundland music. One notable recording he contributed to is "Another Time: The Songs of Newfoundland" by various artists, where his musicianship is featured among other Newfoundland folk artists. This album includes a mix of traditional and contemporary Newfoundland music, showcasing the island's rich musical heritage.
For those interested in exploring Art Stoyles's music, it may be beneficial to look for compilations of Newfoundland folk music or recordings from folk festivals and other live events where he performed. Additionally, contacting Newfoundland cultural organizations or visiting local music shops in Newfoundland might yield recordings or further information about his musical legacy.
Given the nature of traditional and folk music, much of an artist's influence and contributions can also be found in live performances, sessions, and community events, beyond commercial recordings. Therefore, Art Stoyles's impact on Newfoundland's music scene and his role in preserving its musical traditions are perhaps best appreciated through the stories and performances he left behind, as well as the musicians he inspired.
 

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