Full Breakdown
The Deep Connection Between Steven Isserlis and the Marquis de Corberon Cello
1/17/2026, 8:32:44 PM
The Unique Instrument and Its Caretaker
In January 2022, British cellist Steven Isserlis faced a nightmare scenario: the potential loss of his prized possession, the 1726 Marquis de Corberon Stradivarius cello, during a rainstorm. This cello, crafted by renowned luthier Antonio Stradivari, is not only a significant historical artifact but also a vital part of Isserlis's identity as a musician. The instrument, valued at millions of British pounds, is known for its "uniquely magnificent" sound, according to luthier Robert Brewer Young, and represents the pinnacle of Stradivari's craftsmanship.
Isserlis has been entrusted with the Marquis de Corberon on a long-term loan from London’s Royal Academy of Music, which owns the instrument. This arrangement is unique, as the Marquis is the only high-profile piece that travels with an international soloist. The Academy views Isserlis and the cello as joint ambassadors for its collection, emphasizing their mutual importance.
The Terms of the Loan
The loan agreement comes with strict conditions regarding travel, security, and maintenance. If Isserlis fails to adhere to these stipulations, the cello could be recalled at any time. When the loan was recently renewed, Isserlis expressed his deep attachment to the instrument, stating, “I said, ‘No, it’s a loan for life’... ‘Because if you take it away from me, I’ll kill myself.’” This statement underscores the profound emotional connection Isserlis has with the cello, which he treats with the utmost care, often bringing it on flights where it occupies its own seat.
The Challenges of Travel
Traveling with the Marquis de Corberon presents logistical challenges, particularly when it comes to airline check-ins. The cello lacks a passport number, leading to complications that have caused Isserlis to miss flights while waiting in terminal lobbies. Despite these hurdles, Isserlis remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of the instrument, often prioritizing its care over convenience.
Criticism and Opposition
While Isserlis's dedication to the cello is widely acknowledged, some critics may question the practicality of such an intense attachment to a single instrument, particularly in the context of a demanding concert schedule that includes over a hundred flights a year. However, supporters argue that Isserlis's relationship with the Marquis de Corberon enhances his performances and serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of classical music.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The sound is uniquely magnificent,” — Robert Brewer Young, Luthier
- “Steven is a great ambassador for the collection and for the Academy,” — Susana Caldeira, Head of Collections, Royal Academy of Music
- “He can’t do anything less than a hundred and ten per cent all of the time,” — Jonathan Freeman-Attwood, Principal, Royal Academy of Music
- “Would you put your baby in the hold?” — Steven Isserlis, Cellist
In summary, the relationship between Steven Isserlis and the Marquis de Corberon cello exemplifies the deep emotional and professional bonds that can exist between musicians and their instruments, highlighting the complexities of ownership, care, and artistic expression in the world of classical music.
