Cellist gets kicked off the plane
and buys his own cello
René van Munster (cellist, 1989) found his dream cello after a two-year search. The instrument was built by the Amsterdam-based violin maker Gudrun Kremeier. “The cello inspires me to explore every corner of the sound spectrum!” With the purchase of his own cello, he will return his loaned instrument from the fund next week—an anonymous cello from Mirecourt that René has played for nearly 14 years. The cellist is a fine example of musicians spreading their wings.
Development
The Mirecourt cello was a major source of support for René during his formative years at the conservatory: “I learned to play the cello on it, so to speak. At the time, I chose this cello because it offered such a wide range of timbres. I explore various new musical styles and need an instrument that does justice to all of them.” René and his cello from the Musical Instrument Fund have been through a lot together, and the instrument has held a very special place in his heart. René is a cellist with the Oerknal collective and the CelloOctet Amsterdam, and is active in the innovative MiMic project: meaningful music in healthcare.
Continuing to Grow
The Musical Instrument Fund places no limit on the loan period or the borrower’s age. As long as you are a musician with an active performing career in the Netherlands and cannot afford a suitable instrument with your own funds, you are eligible to receive an instrument on loan. Musicians often progress with the Music Instrument Fund; they submit a follow-up request for a different instrument that better suits their current practice, skill level, or ideal sound. Of course, you may also be ready one day to purchase your own instrument. And the Music Instrument Fund certainly encourages that.
Dream Cello
“Gudrun Kremeier built me a dream cello, based on a Venetian Goffriller model, and it turned out beautifully. Her cellos possess a diverse and authentic palette of timbres. How special is it to work with a luthier to perfect your own instrument?” says René. For him, it was important to search for an instrument that was truly his own. With the support of the Musical Instrument Fund, he was able to figure out exactly what he was looking for and secure the necessary funding. “I’m asking for help with the final part. Unfortunately, good instruments aren’t cheap.”
Farewell
René is now getting to know a new cello that will allow him to take his playing to the next level. At the same time, he is saying goodbye to his cello with mixed feelings. “I sincerely hope that the next player will also experience meaningful moments with this special instrument.”