2nd-generation player leaves the Berlin Philharmonic
OrchestrasThe orchestra is bidding farewell to Alessandro Cappone, who is retiring from the first violin section after 44 years.
His father, Giusto Cappone, was principal viola under Herbert von Karajan from 1958 to 1984.
Alessandro was 22 when he joined. He played for four principal conductors – Karajan, Abbado, Rattle and Petrenko. ‘I learned to be patient and to respect other opinions and ideas,’ he says.
Alessandro is a former leader of the orchestra’s Scharoun Ensemble.
photo: Monika Ritterhaus/Berlin Phil
44 year career on the orchestral Real Madrid – hats off!
Many players who leave their top level jobs quite easily should learn that kind of commitment by him!
Many of these “highly acclaimed” players are just spokes in the wheel. I bet some wouldn’t get into top conservatories on their own.
Wat a messy little comment.
Congratulations. Yet in London orchestras anybody over 55 is treated like the plague. Ageism is rife and managements do nothing. Bravo to this second generation musician.
Norman, we are surprised you’ve never investigated these current matters regarding ageism in London. Too delicate perhaps?
I worked with Alessandro in about 1985 in an abortive attempt at forming a European orchestra. We did a couple of concerts, one in Luxembourg and one in Berlin. Most of the players were Berlin Phil so it was not an experience to forget in a hurry! Alessandro was a fine player and a lovely guy. I liked him a lot. I wish him a happy and healthy retirement
So that’s what Al Capone was doing lately? Oops, It’s Cappone and the original was named Alphonse. Never mind… 🙂