Jacqueline du Pré

Jacqueline du Pré was a British cellist celebrated for the power and intensity of her performances, especially her interpretation of Edward Elgar’s Cello Concerto.

Jacqueline du Pré was a British cellist celebrated for the power and intensity of her performances, especially her interpretation of Edward Elgar’s Cello Concerto. Born in Oxford, England, in 1945, she became one of the most admired cellists of the 20th century before multiple sclerosis ended her performing career early. She died in London in 1987 at age 42.

Early life and training

Du Pré was born into a musical family in Oxford and began studying cello as a child. She trained at the Guildhall School of Music with William Pleeth, receiving the school’s Gold Medal in 1960, and developed into a prodigious young performer.

Performance career

She gained international recognition for her expressive style and technically accomplished performances. Her 1965 recording and performances of Elgar’s Cello Concerto became especially closely associated with her name, helping define her reputation.

Marriage and collaborations

In 1967 she married pianist and conductor Daniel Barenboim, and the pair became a prominent musical partnership. She also performed with major musicians and orchestras of her era.

Illness and later life

Du Pré was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, which progressively affected her ability to perform. Her career ended early, and she spent her later years largely away from the concert stage. She was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1976.