Stradivarius 1709 Violin "Engleman"
Stradivarius 1715 Violin "Joachim"

It has been a great pleasure to have been able to play the two Stradivarius violins on loan from Nippon Music Foundation over the past 11 years; the 1709 “Engleman” for 10 years and the 1715 “Joachim” for 1 year. “Engleman” was with me every step of the way on my career and with the support of this exceptional instrument, I was able to make many significant debuts with the major orchestras in the world. Last year, I was fortunate to have the loan of “Joachim” for my recording with the Staatskapelle Dresden and Christian Thielemann. I was very thrilled to be able to try “Joachim” as I recall hearing this great instrument in a concert before, and I had wished to play it myself one day. Both Strad. violins offered me so many colours in sound and unique depths, and I am truly grateful to the Foundation for offering me the privilege to use these superb instruments.
Tonight, I am very honoured and happy to play with all my gratitude toward the Foundation as there are not enough words to thank for their support.

(From NMF Concert program February 14, 2014)