An exceptional novelty for this anniversary edition of the Cello Competition in 2026: the Pau Casals Foundation will loan the First Laureate the historic cello of the Catalan master, the “Casals” Goffriller (1733), for a period of four years.

This cello by the Venetian luthier Matteo Goffriller dates from 1733. Casals purchased the instrument in Paris in 1908. He played it for more than sixty years and consistently declined the Stradivarius cellos offered to him. He preferred the highly personal voice and profound musicality of his Goffriller, which he fondly called “his dearest friend.” Queen Elisabeth and the Catalan master maintained a relationship of friendship and mutual respect that extended far beyond the musical sphere. They were united by a common social vision of art and a strong commitment to supporting young musicians. The coincidence of their 150th anniversaries, celebrated in 2026, offered an ideal opportunity to honor this unique bond by making this magnificent instrument available to the First Laureate of the Competition. “The loan of the ‘Casals’ Goffriller says a great deal about the values represented by the Competition: allowing a living heritage to circulate among a new generation of musicians,” explains Marie Van der Elst, secretary general ad interim of the Queen Elisabeth Competition. Yvan de Launoit, President of the Competition, highlights how this exceptional instrument will enable the young cellist to fully showcase their immense talent for four years. “This act of great generosity offers performers a tangible link to a musical history that continues to be written, and reminds us that the Competition is not just about a ranking, but also about personal fulfillment. We are deeply grateful to the Pau Casals Foundation for this highly symbolic initiative, which carries the full history of the Competition.” On the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the birth of Pablo Casals (1876 - 1973), other events will be dedicated to this illustrious cellist and humanist, both in Spain and in Belgium. More details will be added in the coming months to new '75&150 years' webpage and the Pau Casals Foundation website.

Deepen your knowledge of Pablo Casals and his cello by reading the interview we conducted with Bernard Meillat, Musical Advisor to the Pau Casals Foundation.