Role

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Composer Conductor  

Birth

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December 19, 1958 in London, England

 

Steven Isserlis is a renowned British cellist who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Born on December 19, 1958, in London, England, Isserlis was raised in a family of musicians. His father, Julian Isserlis, was a composer and musicologist, while his mother, Rita Isserlis, was a pianist. His grandfather, Julius Isserlis, was a famous pianist and composer in Russia. Isserlis began playing the cello at the age of six and was soon recognized as a prodigy. He studied at the City of London School and later at the International Cello Centre in Scotland. He also received guidance from some of the most prominent cellists of his time, including Daniil Shafran, Mstislav Rostropovich, and William Pleeth. In 1977, Isserlis made his debut as a soloist with the London Symphony Orchestra, performing the Elgar Cello Concerto. This performance marked the beginning of a long and illustrious career. Over the years, Isserlis has performed with some of the world's leading orchestras, including the Berlin Philharmonic, the New York Philharmonic, and the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra. One of Isserlis's most significant achievements was his recording of the complete works for cello by Beethoven. This recording, which was released in 1996, received critical acclaim and established Isserlis as one of the foremost interpreters of Beethoven's music. He has also recorded works by other great composers, including Bach, Brahms, and Schumann. In addition to his work as a soloist, Isserlis is also a dedicated chamber musician. He has collaborated with some of the world's most renowned musicians, including pianist Martha Argerich and violinist Joshua Bell. He is a regular performer at major music festivals, including the Salzburg Festival and the BBC Proms. Isserlis has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career. In 1998, he was awarded the CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) for his services to music. He has also been awarded the Schumann Prize by the city of Zwickau, Germany, and the Piatigorsky Prize by the New England Conservatory of Music. In addition to his work as a performer, Isserlis is also a respected author and educator. He has written several books on music, including "Why Beethoven Threw the Stew" and "Robert Schumann: Music and Madness." He is also a professor of cello at the Royal Academy of Music in London. Isserlis is known for his passionate and expressive playing style, as well as his dedication to promoting classical music to a wider audience. He has been a vocal advocate for music education and has worked with numerous organizations to bring music to underserved communities. In conclusion, Steven Isserlis is a highly respected and accomplished cellist who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. His performances and recordings have earned him critical acclaim, and his dedication to music education and outreach has made him a beloved figure in the classical music community.

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