Acclaimed British cellist Guy Johnston has received the 1692 “Segelman” Antonio Stradivari cello on long-term loan.
Facilitated by J & A Beare through the Beare’s International Violin Society, the instrument was given to Guy by a generous anonymous donor. As one of fewer than 70 Stradivari cellos still in existence, the instrument represents a historically valuable example of the master luthier’s work.
Guy previously won the BBC Young Musician of the Year competition, and, as one of Britain’s leading cellists, performs as an international soloist with the world’s great orchestras. Notable highlights include the premiere of Howells’ posthumously completed Cello Concerto, and a curatorial role as the Artistic Director of Hatfield House Chamber Music Festival.
Guy revealed the cello in a private showcase at Beare’s in May 2022, followed by a first public performance later that month at Wigmore Hall. With a back in two pieces of maple with faint horizontal flames and a two-piece front made out of spruce, this fine instrument was completed by the master luthier in 1692 and displays a wonderful golden-brown varnish. The cello received its name from the collector Gerald Segelman. A secretive individual, by the time he passed away, Segelman had amassed one of the world’s greatest collections of string instruments, including this beautiful cello.
