Natalie Clein is a name that resonates powerfully in the world of classical music. As one of Britain’s most accomplished and admired cellists, her journey from a gifted child in Dorset to a world-renowned performer, teacher, and festival director is both inspiring and captivating. Over the decades, she has shaped an extraordinary career marked by technical mastery, emotional depth, and a fearless commitment to artistic integrity. Her contributions extend beyond performance into education, mentoring, and the promotion of chamber music across the globe.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Natalie Clein was born in Poole, Dorset, in 1977. Her early exposure to music came through her family, particularly her mother, who was a violinist. At the tender age of six, Clein began learning the cello. Very quickly, it became evident that she possessed an exceptional gift. Her natural affinity for the instrument, combined with her determination and creativity, distinguished her from her peers.
By her teenage years, Natalie Clein was already making waves in the British music scene. In 1994, at just sixteen, she captured national and international attention by winning both the BBC Young Musician of the Year and the Eurovision Competition for Young Musicians. She was the first British musician to claim the Eurovision title, and her achievement was seen as a breakthrough moment for classical music in the UK.
Education and Artistic Development
Clein’s triumphs at such a young age led to opportunities that shaped her artistic identity. She studied at the Royal College of Music in London, where she was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother Scholarship. Later, she moved to Vienna to study under the legendary Heinrich Schiff, one of the most influential cellists and pedagogues of the twentieth century.
Her education combined technical rigour with an emphasis on emotional expression and originality. Clein has often emphasised that while technical brilliance is vital, true artistry lies in the ability to communicate and move listeners. This belief has guided her throughout her career and is reflected in every performance.
A Career of Performances on the World Stage
Natalie Clein has performed with some of the most respected orchestras in the world. Her orchestral collaborations include appearances with the Philharmonia Orchestra, the Hallé, Bournemouth Symphony, City of Birmingham Symphony, Montreal Symphony, Orchestre National de Lyon, and New Zealand Symphony. Each performance highlighted her extraordinary ability to balance precision with profound emotional depth.
Her Proms debut in 1997 was a pivotal moment. Performing Haydn’s Cello Concerto in C Major under Sir Roger Norrington, she confirmed her place among the leading young talents in British classical music. Since then, she has been a regular performer at the Proms and at prestigious venues across Europe, North America, and Asia.
Chamber Music and Collaborations
While orchestral performances have earned her acclaim, Natalie Clein is equally passionate about chamber music. She has performed alongside esteemed musicians such as Julius Drake, Charles Owen, and quartets including the Belcea, Jerusalem, and Takács ensembles. Her approach to chamber music reflects her belief in dialogue, communication, and equality between players.
Chamber music allows her artistry to flourish in more intimate settings, where the connection between musicians and audiences is immediate and profound. Clein has also embraced interdisciplinary collaborations, working with figures such as writer Jeanette Winterson and dancer Carlos Acosta, merging music with literature and movement to create innovative and memorable performances.
Artistic Leadership and Festival Directorship
Beyond the stage, Clein has taken on roles that shape the future of classical music. She serves as the Artistic Director of the Purbeck International Chamber Music Festival, held in Dorset. The festival reflects her love for chamber music and her desire to bring world-class performances to local audiences. Under her leadership, the festival has grown into a respected event that draws musicians and listeners from around the world.
Teaching and Mentorship
Natalie Clein has always been committed to sharing her knowledge and inspiring the next generation of musicians. From 2015 to 2019, she was the Artist in Residence and Director of Musical Performance at Oxford University, a role that allowed her to combine performance with teaching. She has also held significant teaching positions, including her role as a Professor of Cello at the Rostock Academy of Music in Germany.
Additionally, Clein is a visiting professor at the Royal College of Music in London. Through her teaching and mentorship, she instils not only technical discipline but also the values of passion, creativity, and individuality. She has frequently served as a juror in major international competitions, such as the Queen Elisabeth Competition in Brussels and the ARD International Music Competition in Munich, guiding young talents as they embark on their careers.
Recording Career and Critical Acclaim
A major part of Clein’s artistic output lies in her recordings. She has recorded for leading labels such as Hyperion and EMI Classics. Her discography covers a wide range of repertoire, from Romantic masterworks to twentieth-century pieces.
Her Hyperion recordings of Saint-Saëns’ cello concertos, Bloch’s Schelomo, and Bruch’s Kol Nidrei have won critical acclaim, earning distinctions such as Diapason d’Or, Gramophone Choice, and BBC Critics’ Choice. Earlier, with EMI Classics, she recorded sonatas by Brahms and Schubert, as well as Chopin and Rachmaninoff, demonstrating her versatility and interpretive depth.
Critics have consistently praised Clein’s playing for its warmth, emotional intensity, and sincerity. Unlike performers who prioritise technical brilliance at the expense of expression, Clein always aims to strike a balance, ensuring that every performance tells a story and resonates with audiences.
Awards and Honours
Clein’s career has been recognised with numerous awards and honours. In 2005, she received the Classical BRIT Award for Young British Performer, a recognition of her early achievements and her potential to shape the future of classical music.
In 2021, she was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her services to music. This honour highlighted not only her contributions as a performer but also her work as a teacher, mentor, and cultural ambassador.
Instrument and Musical Voice
A distinctive element of Natalie Clein’s artistry is her instrument. She plays the “Simpson” Guadagnini cello, built in 1777. This historic instrument, with its rich tonal qualities, allows her to achieve remarkable warmth and resonance in her performances. For Clein, the cello is not merely an instrument but an extension of her voice.
Her playing style is often described as deeply personal and emotionally compelling. She is unafraid to take risks, and this fearless approach is part of what makes her performances so memorable. Audiences often describe her concerts as transformative experiences, leaving lasting impressions long after the final note.
Personal Philosophy and Legacy
Natalie Clein’s career reflects a philosophy centred on authenticity, communication, and passion. She has often spoken about the importance of connecting with listeners, making them feel part of the performance rather than distant observers. Her openness to experimentation and collaboration ensures that her music remains fresh and relevant, appealing to both traditional classical audiences and new listeners.
As a teacher and mentor, she continues to influence the future of classical music. Her students carry forward her values of honesty, dedication, and individuality, ensuring that her legacy will extend far beyond her own performances.
Conclusion
Natalie Clein’s journey from a prodigious young cellist in Dorset to an internationally celebrated artist is a testament to her talent, resilience, and passion. She has not only achieved personal success but has also dedicated herself to nurturing the next generation of musicians, promoting chamber music, and exploring creative collaborations.
Her performances are defined by emotional honesty, technical mastery, and a deep connection to her instrument. Her recordings continue to inspire listeners worldwide, while her teaching shapes the future of classical performance. Recognised with awards and honours, including an OBE, she stands as one of the most influential cellists of her generation.
