From 18^th to 25^th July 2021, the Guadagnini Foundation, which is named after one of the most celebrated Italian violin making families, is staging the first Stuttgart International Violin Competition, in partnership with the Staatliche Hochschule fuer Musik und Kunst Stuttgart. This is not only the beginning of a promising cooperation on the highest artistic level, but a new cultural highlight in the regional capital, which will support gifted string players on their way to an international career. It is therefore a pleasure for me to take on the role of patron of the first Stuttgart International Violin Competition.

Our regional government has always considered music a priority. Not only do we promote and encourage the idea that as many people as possible should have access to music and enjoy music, through our music schools, music clubs and concerts, but we also actively cultivate excellence. Baden W is home to international ensembles, institutions and festivals of the highest quality, and talent from all corners of the globe is attracted to our conservatories. The new violin competition will fit well into this fertile cultural scene. With Baden-Wuerttemberg’s cultural and economic partners, and its international network, the competition will raise awareness of music and specifically of young musicians.

I would like to thank the Guadagnini Foundation for its commitment to establishing an important international violin competition in our regional capital. I wish the all the artists good luck in their preparation for the competition, and I trust that the event will be a resounding success.