Prominent American violinist Charles Castleman (83) donated a Stradivarius violin from 1707 to the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel, a prestigious training centre for gifted young musicians in Waterloo, just outside of Brussels.
Castleman was laureate of the Queen Elisabeth Violin Competition in 1963. Throughout the years, he has supported young musical talent, through the Castleman Quartet Program, among others. He wants his legacy to be used to support young violinists.
"Passing on musical excellence is at the heart of the Music Chapel's work," said Grégor Chapelle, CEO of the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel. "This exceptional violin, dating from the golden period of the famous Italian violin maker and over 300 years old, has seen generations of musicians come and go."
First time
Castleman donated his Stradivarius to Myriad, the US arm of the King Baudouin Foundation's international network, but the violin was immediately given on loan to the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel. After three years, the Music Chapel will own the violin.
"The 'Charles Castleman' Stradivarius teaches us a different relationship with time, with people and one with life," he said. "We are immensely grateful to Charles Castleman and honour his decision to support us in continuing Queen Elisabeth's dream."
From 2028, the Music Chapel will own the violin, which will be available to its artists in residence. Until then, American violinist Miclen LaiPang will play the instrument for the next three years. He is a former student of Castleman and a member of the Trio Zadig, an associate artist of the Music Chapel.
It is the first time the training centre in Waterloo has received a Stradivarius.
The 'golden period'
Charles Castleman wants to "pass on music to future generations through my students," he said. "For me, this Stradivarius belongs in an institute where the next generations are prepared for their future and where the level is appropriate for this instrument. The Music Chapel is in line with my wishes and close to my heart."
The violin coming to Waterloo was made during Antonio Stradivari's "golden period" – instruments from those years are the most valued. The instrument is in excellent condition. How much it is worth, or how much money it is insured for, has not been disclosed.
Stradivarius instruments have a long "pedigree" and also often a name referring to a former owner. This violin was previously called "Marquis de Champeaux" and is now known as the "Charles Castleman Stradivarius." Castleman owned the violin since 1983.
