In her role as soloist this weekend with the Minnesota Orchestra, violinist Viktoria Mullova, is without her near constant companion.
Against her wishes, she had to leave it back home in London. Mullova's Stradivarius has been with her for years. It's close to 300 years old and is insured for $3 million. In light of recent security threats, British airports have enforced new size restrictions for carry-on luggage. The new limitations prevent musicians from taking most instruments on board with them.
In a conversation with Minnesota Public Radio's classical music host Brian Newhouse, Viktoria Mullova explained what happened when she attempted to bring her violin with her to Minnesota.