Myriad USA facilitates the donation of an exceptional Stradivarius from 1707 to the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel
Charles Castleman, a leading American violinist, and the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel announced the donation of his 1707 “Castleman, ex-Marquis de Champeaux” Stradivarius violin to Myriad USA, the American entity of the King Baudouin Foundation’s international network. The instrument will be loaned immediately to the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel. This donation will enable the Music Chapel to continue to support talented young violinists in the development of their future careers as professional musicians and in their preparation for international music competitions.
The transmission of musical excellence is at the heart of the Music Chapel’s mission. This exceptional 317-year-old violin – dating from the golden period of the celebrated Italian violinmaker and having served generations of musicians over the centuries – joins the Music Chapel now and will accompany future generations of talented young musicians.
“The “Charles Castleman” Stradivarius teaches us a different relationship with time, a different relationship with people and a different relationship with life. We are grateful to Charles Castleman and honor his decision to support us in perpetuating Queen Elizabeth’s dream.”
Grégor Chapelle – CEO of the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel
Charles Castleman, laureate of the Queen Elisabeth Competition for violin in 1963, has built his career as a violinist and teacher in the United States and abroad. At 83, he remains committed to young musical talent, including through the Castleman Quartet Program, which he created and has organized every summer for over 50 years. Castleman has expressed his wish to use his legacy to support young violinists.
“As a violinist, my job is to bring music to people. I also want to pass on music to future generations through my students. For me, this Stradivarius therefore belongs in an institution where the next generations are preparing for their future and where the level is fitting for this instrument. The Music Chapel is in line with my wishes and close to my heart.”
Charles Castleman – violinist
The violinist Miclen LaiPang, a former student of Castleman and member of the Trio Zadig
– Associate Artist at the Music Chapel – will play the “Charles Castleman” Stradivarius until the end of 2027. From 2028 onwards, the instrument will be made available to Artists in residence at the Music Chapel.
Myriad USA facilitated the donation
The Myriad international alliance for cross-border donations, initiated by the King Baudouin Foundation, helped to facilitate this donation. Any cross-border artistic donation is a complex process, from a cultural, legal and tax perspective. In response to this challenge, Myriad USA created the Myriad ART program, specially designed to support American donors wishing to donate works of art abroad. The donation of the “Charles Castleman” Stradivarius is a perfect illustration of the facilitating role played by the King Baudouin Foundation’s international philanthropy network. This role is not limited to works of art; it also encompasses the support of philanthropic donations to social, cultural, scientific or academic projects or organizations, beyond national borders.
“Generosity comes from the heart. But once the heart has spoken, one needs to structure a gift in a way that makes sense from a legal and tax perspective. This is where Myriad USA comes in. We are delighted to have been able to play a role in making Charles Castleman’s vision a reality.”
Jean Paul Warmoes – CEO of Myriad USA