Exclusive: Principal flute is dropped by Vienna Philharmonic

The Italian principal flute Silvia Careddu learned today that she had failed her regulation two-year trial  after one year and five months with the Vienna Philharmonic.

Silvia, one of a dozen women presently in the orchestra, gave a stellar performance during the New Year’s Day concert three weeks ago and was generally well liked across the ensemble.

But certain players in the wind section had reservations (we hear) about her timing, and their view apparently prevailed in the vote. Other players have told us they are very disappointed.

There was no question about her sound, which was universally appreciated.

Silvia, 41, will leave the orchestra at the end of the season.

She was previously principal flute of the Wiener Symphoniker. Although appointed by the Vienna Philharmonic in September 2016, she did not start to play until her predecessor retired in August 2017.

UPDATE: We hear that the principal of almost every section in the orchestra voted in favour of Silvia, but they were outnumbered. The absence of one player is thought to have made the difference to the final, tight result, denying Silvia the two-thirds majority required.