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A touching surprise concert
for a donor

The woman who donated a beautiful cello was recently surprised on her birthday. A secretly organized concert, featuring cellist Kalle de Bie, marked her reunion with the cello after twelve years. The performance stirred up a lot of emotions, as her husband, who had always played the cello, passed away a few years ago. “Seeing the cello and hearing the music itself made a deep impression on all of us.”

News
22 April 2024 by Indy de Vries

A Special Donation

In 2012, a couple donated a particularly beautiful cello to the Musical Instrument Fund. The instrument, built by Jean Baptiste Vuillaume, was already a generous gift, but after a new appraisal, it turned out to be worth twice as much. Everyone at the foundation was silent for a moment. Despite the increase in value, the couple stood by their decision. They believed: “You don’t actually own an instrument like this. You have it on loan from a gifted luthier. It comes with the obligation to play it beautifully.” Fortunately, that obligation is being fulfilled.

Passing on a Cello

The first player of the donated Vuillaume cello (Paris, ca. 1845) was Mette Seidel, cellist with the EnAccord Quartet. After five years, Mette decided to return the cello and was able to pass the Vuillaume on to Alexander Warenberg. He, too, played the cello for five years, but was then offered another cello on loan by a patron.

Listen here to Alexander Warenberg playing the Vuillaume cello.

Fortunately, when one musician moves on, it also means welcoming a successor. Since late 2023, Kalle de Bie has been playing the Vuillaume. Even though he has only recently been loaned the cello, he has already had a very special experience.

Music Brings People Together

Kalle was invited to give a concert together with violinist Ruña ’t Hart to celebrate the donor’s 90th birthday. Her granddaughter had secretly approached the Musical Instrument Fund to organize this private concert. The presence of the cello, which had been played by her late husband, who passed away in 2018, would be a huge surprise.

The concert stirred up many emotions in the family; there were few dry eyes. It felt as if “Grandpa” was there with them, at least a little bit. And the choice of music happened to be spot on, because he loved Rameau very much. All in all, it was an emotional and meaningful moment. We’re glad we were able to play a part in it.

“It was a really nice surprise, and I am extremely grateful to you and the foundation; it added an extra touch of sparkle to a very successful birthday party!”