EVENTS – United States

On Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at the Couvent des Cordeliers in Beaune, the Instrument Fund of Musique & Vin au Clos Vougeot organized an exceptional day of auditions. Eighteen young musicians, rigorously selected from the greatest European conservatories, were invited to present a set piece and a piece of their own choosing to an exceptional jury.

This jury was made up of personalities from the world of wine and classical music – Aubert de Villaine, President of Musique & Vin, Bernard Hervet, Director of Musique & Vin, Daniel Weissmann, Bertrand Dermoncourt, General Manager of Radio Classique, and Raphaël Perraud, solo cellist of the Orchestre National de France – who all praised the level of excellence of this new generation of musicians.

At the end of the auditions, 17 musicians were loaned a high-quality string instrument for a period of 1 to 3 years. These loans represent a real springboard for their professional future, accompanied by tailor-made support throughout these years. This year, two newly commissioned violins, signed by Antoine Gonon and Charles Cocquet, have joined the Fund and found takers among the young musicians auditioned.

Friends of Musique et Vin au Clos Vougeot, Inc. (FOMV) presented a unique opportunity for violinists between the ages of 18 and 28 to compete for the use of a violin by renowned luthier Sam Zygmuntowicz for the next two years.

Zygmuntowicz violins are prized for their rich, powerful sound and extraordinary craftsmanship. They are highly coveted even by leading professionals; but for an aspiring young artist, it is a true gift and privilege to play one. As America’s most celebrated violin maker, Mr. Zygmuntowicz often commands a waiting list of several years, but he produced the current instrument in 2021 for the express purpose of awarding its use to a young artist through FOMV.

Donor Wineries
in Attendance

• Champagne Delamotte
• Champagne Salon
• Domaine Bonneau du Martray
• Domaine Faiveley
• Domaine Leflaive
• Domaine des Lambrays
• Domaine de la Romaneé-Conti