Applications Open for the Nippon Music Foundation's 2023 Instrument Loan Project

The Japanese foundation owns 21 fine Stradivarius and Guarneri string instruments, which it loans to distinguished players under the age of 35

The Tokyo-based Nippon Foundation is now accepting applications for its Instrument Loan Project. Launched in 1994, the project provides the loan of 21 Stradivarius and Guarneri violins to notable string soloists who are under the age of 35.

Current recipients of the Foundation's loans include VC Artists Timothy Chooi, María Dueñas, and Ray Chen.

The Foundation offers three different categories of loans. Category A loans are for all instrumentalists under 35, with the loan lasting between two and seven years.

Players who will be performing primarily in Japan can apply for a Category B loan of 2-3 years.

Applicants to Category C must contact the Foundation before applying. These loans are for a specific purpose, such as a recording project, competition, or special concert of some kind.

Applicants will require two letters of recommendation, a biography and performance schedule, a list of repertoire, up to three reviews, and three video recordings of their playing.

In addition, the Foundation will loan the 1708 "Huggins" Stradivarius to the winner of the next violin edition of the Queen Elisabeth Competition.

Established in 1974, the Nippon Music Foundation's objective is to contribute to musical culture in Japanese society. The Instrument Loan Project is its flagship offering, and in the process the Foundation has become a global custodian for these fine instruments.

You can read more and apply for a loan here.