Los Angeles Philharmonic Names Latvian Violinist Vineta Sareika as New Concertmaster

On June 11 2026, the Los Angeles Philharmonic announced that Latvian violinist Vineta Sareika would assume the orchestra’s most visible leadership role—concertmaster—beginning with the 2026‑27 season. Sareika, 40, will succeed Martin Chalifour, who stepped down after three decades of service. The move signals a deliberate shift toward fresh artistic energy while preserving the ensemble’s high standards.

Sareika’s appointment follows a memorable guest appearance with the LA Phil during the orchestra’s production of Wagner’s Die Walküre. In a statement released by the organization, she reflected on the experience: “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.” The LA Phil described the concertmaster’s role as a “vital artistic liaison between the conductor and orchestra,” underscoring the position’s importance in shaping performance quality.

The Latvian violinist is best known for her work as first violinist of the Artemis Quartet from 2012 until its dissolution in 2021 and for her tenure with the Berlin Philharmonic. She joined Berlin in 2022 and was promoted to First Concertmaster in 2023, becoming the orchestra’s first woman in that role. Sareika left Berlin in February 2025, citing a desire to pursue a different path.

Outgoing Music and Artistic Director Gustavo Dudamel welcomed the news with praise: “Vineta is a highly respected and accomplished musician who brings remarkable experience, deep musical generosity, and passion for collaboration.” Incoming Music Director Daniel Harding echoed the sentiment, saying, “I’ve admired Vineta’s playing for years… 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 an Antonio Stradivarius violin from 1683, loaned to her by the Ruggieri Foundation. The instrument’s provenance and the foundation’s support were highlighted in the LA Phil’s press release.

Alongside the concertmaster appointment, the orchestra announced Ben Ullery’s promotion to Principal Viola. Ullery has risen through the orchestra’s ranks—from section violist to Assistant Principal, Associate Principal, and now Principal. President and CEO Kim Noltemy said, “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.”

Martin Chalifour’s retirement marks the end of a three‑decade tenure that began in 1995. The LA Phil’s website notes that Chalifour joined the Cleveland Orchestra in 1990 as Associate Concertmaster before becoming Acting Concertmaster for two seasons.

The LA Phil’s leadership changes come as the orchestra prepares for a new era under Music Director Daniel Harding, who will begin his first full season in 2027‑28. The appointment of Sareika and Ullery aligns with the ensemble’s stated goal of fostering collaborative musicianship and maintaining high artistic standards.

Sareika will assume her duties in the fall of 2026, coinciding with the start of the 2026‑27 concert season. The LA Phil has not yet announced specific dates for her first rehearsal or debut performance. Ullery’s promotion is effective immediately.

The appointments reflect the LA Phil’s ongoing efforts to diversify its leadership and to bring internationally recognized talent to its ranks. The orchestra’s official communications indicate that both Sareika and Ullery will play key roles in shaping the ensemble’s artistic direction for the coming seasons.

The LA Phil’s announcement was made through its official website and confirmed by reputable music‑industry outlets, including Broadway World and The Violin Channel.

The orchestra’s leadership changes are expected to influence its programming and rehearsal processes in the 2026‑27 season, though specific plans have not yet been released.

In summary, the Los Angeles Philharmonic has named Vineta Sareika as its new concertmaster, effective fall 2026, and Ben Ullery as Principal Viola. These appointments follow the retirement of Martin Chalifour and precede the start of Daniel Harding’s tenure as Music Director. The orchestra will begin the 2026‑27 season with these new leaders in place.