A violin for Sofia and a cello for Maria: a project made possible thanks to patron Philippe Avisse
- carla23198
- Jan 19
- 3 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Monday, 19 January 2026 marked the official presentation of two instruments: a violin by luthier Camille De Tredern and a cello by luthier Nicolas Gilles. These two instruments, funded thanks to the generous support of Philippe Avisse, were presented to Maria Chahine and Sofia Demydenko during an evening dedicated to the transmission of knowledge, craftsmanship and musical excellence.
Two instruments of excellence, the result of patronage and the art of luthiery
In 2024, Philippe Avisse called on Talents & Violon’celles to place an order for a violin and a cello with luthiers Camille de Tredern and Nicolas Gilles. A music lover since childhood, collector and knowledgeable music enthusiast, Philippe Avisse discovered Talents & Violon’celles many years ago and decided to take action by providing concrete support to young talents. Thanks to his collaboration with our fund, he was able to select custom-made instruments and see his project to form a string quartet gradually take shape, with two instruments already completed. This first step marks the beginning of an adventure that is set to continue.
"There will be two other instrument makers. My instruments will be loaned to artists who need them; it's my way of contributing to the musical community." Philippe Avisse
The moment of transmission
After several months of meticulous work by two passionate luthiers, the instruments found their first performers. Camille de Tredern, creator of a remarkable copy of a Cremona violin, and Nicolas Gilles, who drew inspiration from a Stradivarius cello model, devoted long hours to crafting and testing the instruments in their workshop in order to achieve optimal sound and aesthetic balance.
This patient work culminated in an emotional moment when the instruments were entrusted to their musicians. Syrian cellist Maria Chahine and Ukrainian violinist Sofia Demydenko received their respective instruments and played them in public for the very first time, bringing these creations to life.
"My instruments are the result of being steeped in a rich heritage, passed down by dozens of generations of instrument makers through their instruments, tools, notes, books... My work is nourished by these centuries of research and creativity, but also by my ever-increasing encounters with my colleagues." Camille De Tredern
The beginning of a musical adventure for Maria et Sofia
Maria Chahine and Sofia Demydenko have been living in France since September 2024 to further their musical training in a stimulating and culturally enriching environment. They aspire to perfect their skills and build a solid artistic career that matches their ambitions and commitment.
We wish them every success in their studies and in the development of their artistic careers, supported by these exceptional instruments.
"Being able to borrow a cello from Talents & Violon’celles means much more to me than just material support: it's a precious opportunity to take a step forward in my musical development and prepare myself as well as possible for a career as an accomplished musician." Maria Chahine
At the heart of Talents & Violon’celles' values
The evening continued with a musical interlude featuring Raphaël Pidoux and Jean-Marc Phillips-Varjabedian, who performed a movement from Maurice Ravel's Sonata for Violin and Cello, treating the audience to a special musical moment. The event concluded with a convivial gathering over cocktails, bringing together patrons, musicians and luthiers. It was a time of sharing that reflected the values upheld by Talents & Violon'celles, where music, transmission and encounters take centre stage.
We would like to express our warmest thanks to our private patrons, whose support makes our unique work in promoting future talent possible.
Investing in music, supporting the talents of tomorrow
Our patrons are committed to keeping music alive by supporting the manufacture of instruments by exceptional luthiers. Each instrument becomes a springboard for promising young talents, offering them the means to develop their careers and keep musical heritage alive.
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