Stephan is the co-founder of the Stretton Society, an international network of philanthropists with industry and cultural backgrounds committed to supporting world-class musicians through various innovative platforms. The Society’s mission is to grant exceptional artists access to rare and exquisite stringed instruments crafted by renowned luthiers like Antonio Stradivari and Guarneri del Gesù, providing them with the tools to excel on the global stage. 

Widely regarded as one of the world’s leading authorities on rare French bows and fine Italian violins, Jansen was born into a German-Austrian family of musicians, which immersed him in classical music from an early age. He studied viola at the Musikhochschule Lübeck before transitioning to a career in finance, working in both New York and Düsseldorf. However, his passion for musical instruments led him to a lifelong career dedicated to rare stringed instruments. For over three decades, Jansen has specialized in French bows, learning from the esteemed luthier and bow maker Bernard Millant, who ultimately appointed Jansen as his successor in 2018 at Le Canu-Millant, Paris. Jansen also works as a bow expert in close cooperation with J & A BEARE in London, a leading authority on fine violins. 

Today, Jansen is recognized as an industry-leading expert in the certification and brokerage of rare French bows and fine Italian stringed instruments. His knowledge and network of world-class orchestras and soloists make him one of the most sought-after consultants in the field.

Based in Berlin, he divides his time between Düsseldorf and London, maintaining an active presence across Europe’s musical and cultural hubs. 

Alexandre Breton is a renowned violin maker, restorer, and expert in fine string instruments based in Berlin. After graduating from the Newark School of Violin Making, he spent many years working under Michael Carlton Byrd, who had served for over 25 years at John & Arthur Beare, the esteemed London dealership. During this time, Alexandre benefited immensely from Byrd’s experience and the exceptional range of instruments that passed through the workshop, allowing him to specialize in the restoration of high-end string instruments and to deepen his expertise through close study of outstanding violins, violas, and cellos.

He later gained further experience at Hieronymus Köstler in Stuttgart before establishing his own workshop in Berlin.

Breton is widely respected for his craftsmanship and his deep expertise in the tradition and artistry of the great historical violin makers. His restoration work is highly regarded among professionals, and his clientele includes members of the Berlin Philharmonic, other leading orchestras, as well as distinguished soloists and professors.