Benny Thomasson (1909 to 1984). The greatest influence on American contest fiddling. He built the variation-rich Texas style, won everything including Weiser in 1974, and mentored Mark O’Connor.
Why this player is listed
Benny Thomasson appears in the Play Bluegrass guide to notable fiddle players, which collects contest champions, bluegrass fiddlers, Canadian fiddlers, judges, and departed legends tied to the tradition.
More fiddle context
For the larger list, start with the big list of fiddle players. For the style itself, read the guide to bluegrass fiddle.