The Life of Musicians in the Vienna Philharmonic
The musicians of the renowned Vienna Philharmonic dedicate their lives to the art of music, but what does it truly take to perform in one of the world’s most prestigious orchestras? Being a part of the Vienna Philharmonic is not just a job; it is the realization of a lifelong dream, allowing musicians to fully immerse themselves in every facet of their craft.
Karin Bonelli, Flutist of the Vienna Philharmonic, shares, “Being part of the Vienna Philharmonic means that I’m absolutely living my life’s dream and can embrace every aspect of being a musician with my instrument.” This sentiment echoes the orchestra’s storied legacy, which Richard Strauss famously described as “All praise of the Vienna Philharmonic reveals itself as understatement.”
Maintaining such high standards of excellence requires an extraordinary commitment, as the orchestra typically performs over 300 operas and 100 symphonic concerts each year. Principal harpist Anneleen Lenaerts adds, “No single day is ever the same, and that makes it extremely exciting because then you never actually have a routine.”
The Vienna Philharmonic frequently embarks on international tours, and many of its members also engage in teaching, making their profession more of a lifestyle than merely a job. “I think it must be a vocation because we spend so much time with our profession,” explains flutist Karin Bonelli. “Everyday life is a term I find quite difficult to use because our lives are so diverse. We play in the opera, perform philharmonic concerts, travel, and participate in events like the Salzburg Festival. There are days filled with rehearsals in the morning and afternoon, followed by an opera performance in the evening, and in between, many of us teach. That diversity is what makes it beautiful.”
Historical Significance and Mission
The rich musical heritage of the Vienna Philharmonic is meticulously passed down through generations. This legacy is preserved in the orchestra’s extensive historical archive, which is overseen by Sylvia Kargl. She safeguards a treasure trove of unique objects, letters, and photographs that tell the story of the orchestra’s illustrious past.
While unveiling a particularly significant item, Kargl remarks, “Here is a valuable piece by Ludwig van Beethoven—a piano excerpt from his opera Fidelio. This edition is exceedingly rare; I believe there are only five copies in existence.” One of the archive’s most important documents offers insight into the orchestra’s origins.
“It may not appear remarkable at first glance, just a simple memo, but it is actually the founding decree of the Vienna Philharmonic, penned in 1842 by Otto Nicolai,” Kargl elaborates. “It outlines the core principles that continue to guide the Vienna Philharmonic today, including the musicians’ democratic election of their conductors—a revolutionary concept at the time.”
Karin Bonelli describes the exhilarating experience of performing: “That moment when you step onto the stage is akin to an athlete entering the arena; it’s truly special.”
Self-Governance and Community
The Vienna Philharmonic remains self-governed, managing its own ticketing, programming, and tours. Daniel Froschauer, Chairman and first violinist of the orchestra, believes that this self-administration is just as vital today as it was when first established. “I think self-governance is our most cherished principle. When every member has a say in whom they play with, when, and where, it fosters something beautiful. Of course, with 148 members, there are 300 opinions to consider, which presents its own challenges, but I relish that dynamic.”
Agreeing with Froschauer, Anneleen Lenaerts states, “It’s also beneficial that each musician feels a sense of responsibility for the orchestra’s quality and what we represent.” Bonelli emphasizes that this structure “enhances the sense of community, responsibility, and identity among us.” After years of dedication, she achieved a milestone as the orchestra’s first female wind player.
“It’s a dream I’ve cherished since childhood. At the age of four, I would sit in front of the TV on January 1st and declare, ‘I will be there one day, Mummy.’ She would always respond, ‘Yes, yes, we’ll see!’ Then, when I was just 23, that dream came true. It was an incredible moment.”
Concerts and Opera
The musicians of the Vienna Philharmonic also perform with the Vienna State Opera, balancing their time between the orchestra pit and the concert stage. “Working in the opera has become indispensable for me,” Bonelli notes. “We share the same breathing techniques as the singers, which allows us to learn so much, and I find it immensely enjoyable.”
World-renowned tenor Juan Diego Flórez appreciates the orchestra’s exceptional abilities. “In the Vienna State Opera, they must perform a wide variety of works, which requires them to listen intently. They possess the sensitivity to follow a singer, to breathe with them, and to align with their emotions. This connection is wonderful.”
In conclusion, Froschauer encapsulates the collective experience: “To share all of this in a community is truly remarkable, and with so many committed young colleagues, it makes the experience even more beautiful.”