Master Cello scroll detail

Cultural Guardianship

A Living Masterpiece

A 300 year old cello, preserved through cultural guardianship and shared stewardship.

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About This Project

The Master Cello Project

This project embodies OCTARR's philosophy of fractional philanthropy. By digitally representing the cello and making shared guardianship accessible, we are creating a model where cultural preservation, artistic development, and community participation happen simultaneously.

Members do not simply hold a share in a historic instrument. They help ensure that this cello continues to be played, heard, and cherished by future generations of musicians and audiences.

Through performances, competitions, and exhibitions, the cello's remarkable sonic character will continue to reach the world. Transparent governance and shared stewardship ensure that this instrument remains a living part of our cultural landscape.

The story, stewardship, and evolution of this project are permanently recorded through blockchain technology, ensuring lasting documentation and integrity.

Cellist performing on the historic cello

"Paintings should be seen. Instruments should be heard."

Your Role

Become a Cultural Guardian

Participation in this project is structured as cultural patronage and stewardship, not financial investment.

Cultural Stewardship

  • Recognition as patron of the cello project
  • Name listed on OCTARR website and exhibition materials
  • Invitations to annual recitals by competition winners

Access Rights

  • Private viewing events with the cello
  • Meet-and-greets with competition winners
  • Behind-the-scenes access to Royal College of Music exhibition moments

Digital Rights

  • Exclusive recordings and documentary content
  • Digital certificate of patronage
  • Access to the OCTARR collector and guardian community

Governance

  • Vote on which competitions qualify for the instrument's loan
  • Vote on special exhibition opportunities
  • Input on documentation and preservation efforts
David Tecchler Fecit Rome Anno Dni 1723 - Maker's label inside the cello

Provenance

The Mystery of the Maker

Inscribed inside: "David Tecchler Fecit Rome Anno Dni 1723." This rare cello carries over three centuries of musical heritage, crafted in Rome during the golden age of Italian lutherie.

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Transparency

Important to Understand

This project is about cultural stewardship and artistic continuity.

  • No financial returns or dividends
  • No physical possession of the cello
  • No decision-making over fellowship or institutional operations
  • No promises of investment-style appreciation
Historic cello tuning mechanism detail

A Legacy That Continues to Be Heard

By becoming a guardian of this instrument, you help ensure that its voice continues to resonate in concert halls, classrooms, and competitions for generations to come. This is not ownership in the traditional sense. It is participation in a living cultural legacy.

Become a Member