What do you like most? Jazz or Classic?

Jerry worked well for Mahavishnu 1 but I don't think of him as a jazz musician--more a rocker who was able to fit into the M. Orch. fusion scheme.  J-LP was already a jazz player with modern leanings when he played with McLaughlin.  If you look at what each guy did before and after their stint with John Mc I think you'll see what I mean.
For me the notable jazz violinists are Stuff Smith, Stephane Grappelli, Joe Venuti and Jean-Luc Ponty.   Honorable mentions to "jazzy" players such as Sid Paige (Dan Hicks and his Hot Licks), Vassar Clements (a very bluesy/jazzy bluegrass fiddler) and Johnny Gimble (Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys. ah-HA!)

Frog, I can't play like Paganini but maybe I can 'think' like Paganini so I make contact and that's how I 'listen' to him.
Both Goodman's and Ponty's best years were with McLaughlin. John was a true leader, just like Miles. I do like some Ponty's performances outside Mahavishnu, though. Grappelli okay with me. One could also mention Subramanian.

The most unique violinist, playing his most unique violin; L. Shankar is the man when it comes to East Indian flavored jazz.


                https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r48n2dImHoY


               
              https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JJ_2hf1nmU

I saw Jean Luc Ponty and Vassar Clements together in 1974 playing with John McLaughlin at Knebworth Park, amazing.

The Bill was incredible with Van Morrison, Doobie Brothers and the Allman Brothers Band.  A full day of music for $6.75, now That was a bargain!