A poignant melody drifts through the air. It’s the ghost of Jacqueline du Pre’s cello. We stand before her bronze likeness. This isn’t just a statue. It’s a tribute. A testament to a life cut short. This sculpture at St Hilda’s College honours the celebrated cellist. It captures a moment of intense musical expression. Her posture is graceful. Her face reflects both passion and quiet strength.
The Jacqueline du Pre Sculpture wasn’t always here. It arrived as a gift. Louisa Service generously donated it. The plaque beneath the bronze confirms the donation. It also credits Glynis Owen the sculptor. The sculpture itself is a half-size portrait. It is made of bronze resin. It’s a fitting memorial in the music building named after her. The building opened in 1995. The building commemorates her life. It also serves as a vibrant center for music.
The Jacqueline du Pre Music Building is a place of both celebration and sorrow. It houses the Edward Boyle Auditorium. This is where the cellist once played. She performed Elgar’s Cello Concerto here. It’s said that the building’s acoustics are exceptional. They perfectly capture the depth of a cello’s voice. The auditorium perfectly captures her legacy. The legacy also lives on through other artworks. These are scattered throughout the building. They pay tribute to her enduring spirit.
Jacqueline du Pre’s story is one of triumph and tragedy. She achieved international acclaim at a young age. Multiple sclerosis silenced her cello at the height of her career. Yet, her music continues to inspire generations. The Jacqueline du Pre Sculpture stands as a lasting reminder. It reminds us of her talent and her perseverance. It’s a beautiful and moving piece. It’s a must-see for any visitor to Oxford. It’s more than just a statue. It’s a story carved in bronze. It’s a story of a life dedicated to music. It’s a life tragically cut short. Yet the music remains. The melody lives on.