A special donation enriches the instrumental collection of the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel. The renowned violinist Charles Castleman has entrusted his 1707 Stradivarius violin to Myriad USA, the American branch of the international network of the King Baudouin Foundation. The instrument, previously known as the "Marquis de Champeaux" and now renamed the "Charles Castleman" Stradivarius, will be loaned directly to the Music Chapel.
An instrument with history
This 317-year-old violin, built by the legendary Antonio Stradivari during his 'golden period', has a rich history. The instrument has passed through the hands of many renowned musicians and has filled concert halls around the world with its unique sound. The violin is in excellent condition, with original varnish on all parts and only minor restorations typical of an instrument of this age.
From child prodigy to patron
Charles Castleman, the donor of this precious instrument, himself has an impressive career behind him. As a child prodigy, he performed at age six with the Boston Pops Orchestra. He later became laureate of the Queen Elisabeth Competition in 1963 and has since devoted his life to music, both as a performing musician and as a teacher.
About his decision to donate the violin to the Music Chapel, Castleman says: "The Music Chapel aligns with my wishes and is close to my heart. Furthermore, I am delighted that this violin ends up in Belgium. I will never forget my time during the preparation for the Queen Elisabeth Competition in 1963."
Inspiring a new generation
The first musician to have the honor of playing this special Stradivarius is Miclen Laipang, a former student of Castleman and now Associate Artist at the Music Chapel. Laipang, who will use the instrument for the next three years, expresses his gratitude: "When I hold this 1707 Stradivarius in my hands, I feel connected to something much greater than myself. This violin has sung centuries of history and will now carry an even more personal legacy as the 'Charles Castleman' Stradivarius."
Future plans
After 2027, the Music Chapel will search for a new Artist in residence to play the instrument. The goal is to continue supporting talented young violinists in developing their careers and preparing them for international music competitions.
Grégor Chapelle, CEO of the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel, emphasizes the importance of this donation: "We are enormously grateful to Charles Castleman and honor his decision to support us in continuing Queen Elisabeth's dream."
This special acquisition underscores the Music Chapel's position as a center of excellence for artistic education. With this Stradivarius in its possession, the institution can better prepare young musicians for a future in the international music world, fully in line with its mission to shape the musical elite of tomorrow.