The Senate of the Jāzeps Vītols Latvian Academy of Music (JVLMA) has awarded Violinist Vineta Sareika the title of JVLMA Honorary Professor.
This is in recognition of her impact on the music world and dedication to showcasing Latvian cultural heritage, according to The Violin Channel.
The official ceremony is scheduled for September 20, 2024, at the JVLMA Great Hall, though Sareika received her award earlier this year.
Since her victory at the Queen Elizabeth International Violin Competition in 2009, Sareika has performed with several renowned orchestras, including the London Philharmonia, the Belgian National Orchestra, and the Royal Flemish Orchestra.
She has also performed with the Lisbon Philharmonic Orchestra, Latvian National Symphony Orchestra, and the London Chamber Orchestra.
After performing with the Berlin Philharmonic for nearly three years, Sareika became first concertmaster in 2023.
First Woman In The 141-Year Long History Of Berlin Phil
The 38-year-old musician has received several Latvian Grand Music Awards for her contributions to classical music.
Sareika has also served as guest concertmaster for the Brussels Royal Opera Orchestra and the Brussels Philharmonic Orchestra. She has led performances with ensembles such as the Vienna Philharmonic International Youth Orchestra, the Riga Festival Orchestra, and the Santander International Festival Orchestra.
Recently, Sareika announced her decision to leave the Berlin Philharmonic. Her farewell performance is scheduled for February 2025.
Sareika announced on Facebook, "After three enriching and exciting years with the Berlin Philharmonic I have made the decision to leave the orchestra."
"It has been an honor for me to serve as its first-ever woman concertmaster and I am truly grateful for this unique life experience, fantastic concerts and inspiring encounters."