Vineta Sareika, the Berlin Philharmonic’s first concertmaster, has announced her decision to leave the orchestra, with her final performances scheduled for February 2025.
The Latvian violinist joined the Berlin Philharmonic as a first violinist in May 2022 and was promoted to first concertmaster in February 2023. Her appointment was historic, marking the first time a female violinist held the concertmaster position in the orchestra’s history.
On social media, Sareika shared her decision: “After three enriching and exciting years with the Berlin Philharmonic, I have decided to step down from my position. It has been an honor to serve as the orchestra’s first female concertmaster, and I am truly grateful for this unique experience, the fantastic concerts, and the inspiring encounters.”
She continued, “One of the many valuable lessons from these years is that continuing with this particular orchestra is not the direction I want to pursue in the future. I wish the orchestra the best in finding a wonderful new colleague for this role, and I am looking forward to the next chapter of my personal musical journey.”
