Principal cello Austin Huntington awarded use of 1695 cello
Austin Huntington awarded use of 1695 Pietro Guarneri of Mantua cello through Rare Violins of New York ‘In Consortium’
Cellist Austin Huntington, Principal Cellist of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, has been awarded an extended loan of the only known cello by Pietro Guarneri of Mantua, crafted in 1695, owned by cellist and pedagogue Ronald Leonard. The loan has been facilitated through Rare Violins of New York’s “In Consortium” Artists and Benefactors Collaborative program.
Huntington, who studied with Leonard during his teenage years at the Perlman Music Program and later during his undergraduate degree at the Colburn School, is very familiar with this instrument.
“I am beyond honored to be entrusted with this cello,” Huntington said. “This is the very sound I imagine when I think of the perfect cello. I grew up musically listening to this cello across from me in lessons every week, and it has been a huge part of my development as a cellist. In every possible way, it is my dream cello.”
“We are thrilled to facilitate this exciting loan for Austin. Having worked with many investors to place their Stradivari and Guarneri del Gesu violins in deserving hands, we are proud to add this rare and exceptional cello to our collection,” said Bruno Price, Founding Partner of Rare Violins of New York and Chairman of ‘In Consortium.’
ISO patrons may watch Huntington perform on the Guarneri cello at concerts this season. See all ISO events here.
About Austin Huntington
Huntington was appointed principal cellist of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra at the age of 20, making him one of the youngest principal musicians in a major American orchestra. He is a former first prize winner of the Stulberg and Irving M. Klein international competitions and has been featured as guest principal cellist with the San Francisco Symphony, Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Utah Symphony, and the Florida Orchestra.
About Rare Violins of New York “In Consortium
In Consortium was founded as a platform where benefactors and artists collaborate to maximize the potential of exceptional instruments. By loaning their valuable assets to deserving musicians, benefactors not only reduce the costs of ownership but also play a pivotal role in shaping the careers of tomorrow’s virtuosos. Providing extensive expertise in the fine instrument market, In Consortium offers a comprehensive support system including insurance, maintenance, and artist matching, unlocking the full potential of fine instruments — turning opportunities into legacies. For more information go to RareViolins.com.