Estonian Marcel Johannes Kits becomes principal cellist of the Munich Philharmonic

Estonian cellist Marcel Johannes Kits has become the principal of the cello section of the Munich Philharmonic orchestra in Germany. He spoke about it on the Estonian programme Ringvaade. For now, the 31-year-old musician is on a fixed-term contract, and his work will be closely assessed over the next two years.

Selection and probation

The audition for the post took place last March. Around 10 candidates were invited. There were three rounds, all held within a single morning. Candidates had to prepare many pieces, including several cello concertos and the most important orchestral solos. Kits played these solos alone in the large hall, where 120 people listened and voted on his performance.

A win required two thirds of the votes, and Kits received them. That is not the end of the process, however, as a two-year probation period now begins. Kits said that not only his playing is judged, but also his personality, his ability to handle pressure and how he leads. When probation ends, there will be another vote, again requiring two thirds, to secure a lifetime contract as principal.

Stability and touring

What pleases Kits most is that his life will become much more stable. Until now he worked as a freelancer and had not known a settled life, which he said is very good for his health. Alongside this job, time remains for other activities. The orchestra has two principals, and duties are shared between them.

The orchestra tours quite a lot. In May it had a three-week tour of Asia, and in February it will head to the United States and Europe. In November Kits will give concerts in Estonia.