Steven Isserlis: Five places that changed me

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This was published 8 years ago

Steven Isserlis: Five places that changed me

By Julietta Jameson
Steven Isserlis.

Steven Isserlis.Credit: Keith Saunders Photography

EDROM, BERWICKSHIRE, SCOTLAND

Edrom is the tiny village in the Borders of Scotland where my cello teacher, Jane Cowan, and her husband, Christopher, lived in an imposing but tranquil house (now owned by a famous supermodel). I started visiting the house when I was about 11, and lived there full-time from the age of 15 to 17. The peace and simplicity of the landscape was inspiring – as was the eccentricity. Not many villages could boast 15 inhabitants, a school for Down syndrome children and a cello academy.

PRUSSIA COVE, CORNWALL, ENGLAND

I am artistic director of the International Musicians' Seminar in Prussia Cove, and go down there twice a year. I know no more magical place in the world. The wild sea crashes outside the room in which I teach, and the sound of the waves is a constant accompaniment to our music-making there. It is a transformative and addictive place; many people fall under its spell instantly – forever.

SCROVEGNI CHAPEL, PADUA, ITALY

It is a cliche that people come to classical music later in life – but it is also true. In my case, the same applies to the visual arts; I am shamefully ignorant, but I am now profoundly moved by great painting in a way that I wasn't before. I have been lucky enough to have been allowed three extended visits to Giotto's wondrous chapel. I love the passion, the humour, the deep humanity of his work. A miracle.

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VIRGINIA, USA

Like many musicians, I spend a fair proportion of my time in North America. There are many thrilling cities there – but Charlottesville occupies a special place in my affections. It somehow radiates civilisation. Also, it's full of geniuses: everybody I meet there – waiters, audience members, hotel staff – seems to have a PhD in something exotic, or to speak fluent Mandarin. Extraordinary place.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

I'm not just sucking up here – I really mean it. Of course I adore many beautiful cities in Europe – Prague and Krakow, for instance, as well as most of Italy. But from the first time I set foot in Sydney in the late '80s, and felt the excitement and splendour of the place, I knew that this was a city which would always be part of my life. I believe that this visit is my 16th.

Steven Isserlis's fourth Musica Viva national tour runs June 2-20, also featuring Canadian pianist Connie Shih. For details and tickets see musicaviva.com.au; stevenisserlis.com.

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