ArtistDirect News
Los Angeles Philharmonic Names Latvian Violinist Vineta Sareika as New Concertmaster
On June 11, 2026, the Los Angeles Philharmonic announced a new era for its flagship violinist role. Latvian virtuoso Vineta Sareika will assume the position of concertmaster for the 2026‑27 season, succeeding Martin Chalifour, who retired after three decades of leadership.
Sareika’s appointment follows a guest appearance with the orchestra in Wagner’s Die Walküre and reflects the LA Phil’s strategy of adding seasoned international talent to its core ensemble. The move positions the orchestra to continue delivering the high‑quality performances it has become known for.
At 40, Sareika has carved a distinguished career across chamber music, orchestral leadership, and solo performance. From 2012 to 2021 she served as first violinist of the Artemis Quartet, a German string quartet that garnered critical acclaim and multiple awards before taking a hiatus. In 2022 she joined the Berlin Philharmonic as a first violinist and, in February 2023, became the orchestra’s first female First Concertmaster—a milestone in its 141‑year history. She departed Berlin in February 2025, citing a desire to pursue new directions.
"What impressed me most during my time with the musicians was the sense of trust, warmth, and shared commitment I experienced. I felt genuinely welcomed and inspired by their collective desire to create something meaningful together. For me, that spirit of trust and collaboration is an essential foundation for making great music, and I look forward to becoming part of this extraordinary musical community and contributing to the orchestra’s future," Sareika said in a statement released by the LA Phil. The statement echoes the ensemble’s description of the concertmaster as a “vital artistic liaison between the conductor and orchestra.”
Music Director Gustavo Dudamel, who will conclude his tenure at the end of the 2025‑26 season, praised Sareika as a “highly respected and accomplished musician” who brings “remarkable experience, deep musical generosity, and passion for collaboration.” Daniel Harding, slated to take the helm in the 2027‑28 season, added, "I’ve admired Vineta’s playing for years: the intelligence behind every phrase, the integrity, the sense that nothing is ever done for effect. There’s an infectious joy and warmth to the way she plays that everyone in the room feels. I’m delighted she’s coming to Los Angeles, and I can’t wait to make music with her."
Sareika will perform on a 1683 Antonio Stradivarius loaned by the Ruggieri Foundation. The instrument’s provenance and the foundation’s support underscore the LA Phil’s commitment to equipping its musicians with world‑class instruments.
In parallel, the orchestra announced the promotion of veteran violist Ben Ullery to Principal Viola. Ullery’s rise—from section violist to Assistant Principal, Associate Principal, and now Principal—highlights the ensemble’s confidence in his artistic growth. President and CEO Kim Noltemy noted, "Ben Ullery’s appointment as Principal Viola is a reflection of his incredible talent and his commitment to the Los Angeles Philharmonic. His artistic growth within the orchestra, combined with his accomplishments as a soloist, collaborator, and educator, makes him an inspiring musician for this position."
These leadership changes arrive as the LA Phil prepares for a new artistic direction. With Dudamel concluding his tenure and Daniel Harding slated to lead in the 2027‑28 season, the appointments of Sareika and Ullery position the orchestra to uphold its performance standards while embracing fresh perspectives. Based at Walt Disney Concert Hall and renowned for its world‑premiere and commissioning activity, the LA Phil continues to seek musicians who embody its collaborative ethos.
In sum, Vineta Sareika’s appointment as concertmaster and Ben Ullery’s promotion to Principal Viola signal the LA Phil’s ongoing dedication to artistic excellence and leadership development. The 2026‑27 season will feature a blend of traditional repertoire and new works, with Sareika’s experience in both orchestral and chamber settings expected to enrich the ensemble’s sound.
Sareika’s appointment follows a guest appearance with the orchestra in Wagner’s Die Walküre and reflects the LA Phil’s strategy of adding seasoned international talent to its core ensemble. The move positions the orchestra to continue delivering the high‑quality performances it has become known for.
At 40, Sareika has carved a distinguished career across chamber music, orchestral leadership, and solo performance. From 2012 to 2021 she served as first violinist of the Artemis Quartet, a German string quartet that garnered critical acclaim and multiple awards before taking a hiatus. In 2022 she joined the Berlin Philharmonic as a first violinist and, in February 2023, became the orchestra’s first female First Concertmaster—a milestone in its 141‑year history. She departed Berlin in February 2025, citing a desire to pursue new directions.
"What impressed me most during my time with the musicians was the sense of trust, warmth, and shared commitment I experienced. I felt genuinely welcomed and inspired by their collective desire to create something meaningful together. For me, that spirit of trust and collaboration is an essential foundation for making great music, and I look forward to becoming part of this extraordinary musical community and contributing to the orchestra’s future," Sareika said in a statement released by the LA Phil. The statement echoes the ensemble’s description of the concertmaster as a “vital artistic liaison between the conductor and orchestra.”
Music Director Gustavo Dudamel, who will conclude his tenure at the end of the 2025‑26 season, praised Sareika as a “highly respected and accomplished musician” who brings “remarkable experience, deep musical generosity, and passion for collaboration.” Daniel Harding, slated to take the helm in the 2027‑28 season, added, "I’ve admired Vineta’s playing for years: the intelligence behind every phrase, the integrity, the sense that nothing is ever done for effect. There’s an infectious joy and warmth to the way she plays that everyone in the room feels. I’m delighted she’s coming to Los Angeles, and I can’t wait to make music with her."
Sareika will perform on a 1683 Antonio Stradivarius loaned by the Ruggieri Foundation. The instrument’s provenance and the foundation’s support underscore the LA Phil’s commitment to equipping its musicians with world‑class instruments.
In parallel, the orchestra announced the promotion of veteran violist Ben Ullery to Principal Viola. Ullery’s rise—from section violist to Assistant Principal, Associate Principal, and now Principal—highlights the ensemble’s confidence in his artistic growth. President and CEO Kim Noltemy noted, "Ben Ullery’s appointment as Principal Viola is a reflection of his incredible talent and his commitment to the Los Angeles Philharmonic. His artistic growth within the orchestra, combined with his accomplishments as a soloist, collaborator, and educator, makes him an inspiring musician for this position."
These leadership changes arrive as the LA Phil prepares for a new artistic direction. With Dudamel concluding his tenure and Daniel Harding slated to lead in the 2027‑28 season, the appointments of Sareika and Ullery position the orchestra to uphold its performance standards while embracing fresh perspectives. Based at Walt Disney Concert Hall and renowned for its world‑premiere and commissioning activity, the LA Phil continues to seek musicians who embody its collaborative ethos.
In sum, Vineta Sareika’s appointment as concertmaster and Ben Ullery’s promotion to Principal Viola signal the LA Phil’s ongoing dedication to artistic excellence and leadership development. The 2026‑27 season will feature a blend of traditional repertoire and new works, with Sareika’s experience in both orchestral and chamber settings expected to enrich the ensemble’s sound.