Grégor Chapelle – CEO of the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel: "The 'Charles Castleman' Stradivarius teaches us a different relationship with time, with people and with life. We are enormously grateful to Charles Castleman and honour his decision to support us in continuing the dream of Queen Elisabeth."
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 beyond. At 83 years old, he continues to dedicate himself to young musical talent, including through the Castleman Quartet Program that he has organized every summer for over 50 years. Castleman, who himself has a lifelong connection with Belgium and the Music Chapel, has indicated that it is his wish to use his legacy to support young violinists.Charles Castleman: "As a violinist, it is my task to bring music to people. Also through my students, I want to pass on music to future generations. This Stradivarius, for me, therefore rightfully belongs to an institution where future generations are prepared for their future and where the level is appropriate for this instrument. The Music Chapel aligns with my wish and is close to my heart."
The violinist Miclen LaiPang, former student of Castleman and member of Trio Zadig – which is Associate Artist at the Music Chapel – will play the Stradivarius until the end of 2027. From 2028, the instrument will be available for Artists in residence of the Music Chapel. Myriad USA made the gift from Charles Castleman possible. The international Myriad alliance for cross-border gifts, initiated by the King Baudouin Foundation, made it possible to facilitate this donation, as a cross-border artistic gift is a complex process from cultural, legal and fiscal perspectives. In response to this challenge, the American entity Myriad USA created the Myriad ART program, specially designed to support American donors who wish to donate artworks abroad. The donation of the "Charles Castleman" Stradivarius is a perfect example of the facilitating role played by the international philanthropy network of the King Baudouin Foundation. This role is not limited to heritage works, but also includes support for philanthropic donations for projects or organizations with a social, cultural, scientific or academic purpose, across national borders.Jean-Paul Warmoes, CEO Myriad USA: "Generosity comes from the heart. But once that heart has spoken, it is a matter of structuring a gift in a way that makes legal and fiscal sense. That is where Myriad USA comes in. We are pleased that we were able to play a role in realizing Charles Castleman's vision."
