Stradivarius entrusted to the Music Chapel
by Charles Castleman
Charles Castleman, renowned American violinist, has donated his 1707 “Castleman, ex-Marquis de Champeaux” Stradivarius violin to Myriad USA, the American branch of the King Baudouin Foundation’s international network. The violin will be immediately loaned to the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel.
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This generous donation allows the Music Chapel to continue supporting talented young violinists in their professional development and preparation for international competitions. The 317-year-old violin, from the golden era of the celebrated Italian violin maker, will accompany future generations of musicians at the Music Chapel.
“The ‘Charles Castleman’ Stradivarius teaches us a different relationship with time, people, and life. We are deeply grateful to Charles Castleman for supporting the fulfillment of Queen Elisabeth’s vision.
Charles Castleman, laureate of the Queen Elisabeth Competition for violin in 1963, has built a distinguished career as both a performer and teacher in the United States and internationally. At 83, he continues to foster young musical talent through the Castleman Quartet Program, which he has organized for over 50 years.
As a violinist, my job is to bring music to people. This Stradivarius belongs in an institution where the next generation of musicians is preparing for their future, and the Music Chapel aligns perfectly with that mission.
The violin will be played by Miclen LaiPang, a former student of Castleman and member of Trio Zadig (current Associate Artist at the Music Chapel), until the end of 2027. Starting in 2028, the violin will be available to the Music Chapel’s Artists in Residence.
This donation was facilitated by Myriad USA through the Myriad ART program, an initiative of the King Baudouin Foundation’s international network. This program helps American donors donate artwork abroad, navigating the complex cultural, legal, and tax challenges of cross-border donations.
Generosity comes from the heart, but it’s important to structure a gift in a way that makes sense legally and fiscally. We are thrilled to have played a role in making Charles Castleman’s vision a reality.
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