In yet another change of its top-level leadership, the Los Angeles Philharmonic has named Latvian violinist Vineta Sareika as its new concertmaster.
A former concertmaster of the Berlin Philharmonic, she will assume her new position this fall, at the beginning of the 2026-2027 season.
Sareika, 40, served as guest concertmaster for the orchestra’s recent performances of Wagner’s Die Walküre.
“What impressed me most during my time with the musicians was the sense of trust, warmth, and shared commitment I experienced,” she said in a statement released by the orchestra. “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.”
The Philharmonic describes the role of concertmaster as “a vital artistic liaison between the conductor and orchestra.”
A native of Jūrmala, Latvia, Sareika was the first violinist of the Artemis Quartet from 2012 until its dissolution in 2021. She joined the Berlin Philharmonic in 2022 and was appointed First Concertmaster a year later — she was the first woman to hold that position.
She left the Berlin Philharmonic in February 2025, and told the website violinist.com that while she was “truly grateful for this unique life experience,” she felt “being part of this particular orchestra is not the path I’d like to continue on in the future."
Sareika replaces Martin Chalifour, who retired from the LA Phil at the end of the 2024-2025 season after 30 years in the role.
Outgoing Music and Artistic Director Gustavo Dudamel called Sareika “a highly respected and accomplished musician” who “brings not only remarkable experience, but also a deep musical generosity and passion for collaboration.”
Incoming Music Director Daniel Harding joined in Dudamel’s praise of Sareika.
“I’ve admired Vineta’s playing for years: The intelligence behind every phrase, the integrity, the sense that nothing is ever done for effect,” he said. “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 plays an Antonio Stradivarius violin from 1683, on loan from the Ruggieri Foundation.
Separately, the LA Phil announced the appointment of veteran orchestra member Ben Ullery as Principal Viola. Ullery has risen through the ranks, from section violist to Assistant Principal, Associate Principal, and now Principal Viola.
“Ben Ullery’s appointment as Principal Viola is a reflection of his incredible talent and his commitment to the Los Angeles Philharmonic,” said Kim Noltemy, President and CEO of the LA Phil. “His artistic growth within the orchestra, combined with his accomplishments as a soloist, collaborator and educator, makes him an inspiring musician for this position, and we are thrilled to see him take on this leadership role.”
