Marcel Johannes Kits faces probation before permanent Munich Philharmonic post

Marcel Johannes Kits has secured a temporary contract as principal cellist of the Munich Philharmonic’s cello section, but must pass a probation period and another vote to earn a permanent post, he told ERR’s Ringvaade programme.

Kits said orchestra members are watching his playing, conduct and ability to handle pressure. At the end of the two-year probation period, he will need at least two-thirds of the votes to receive a permanent contract.

He won the position in an audition held in March last year. About 10 musicians were invited to perform in three rounds on the same morning, playing several cello concertos and major orchestral solos. Kits performed the solos alone in a large hall before 120 people, who then voted. He received the required two-thirds majority.

The 31-year-old said the job has brought greater stability after years as a freelancer. The orchestra has two principal cellists, allowing them to share the responsibilities and leaving time for other work, he said.

Kits said the orchestra tours frequently. It completed a three-week tour of Asia in May and is due to tour the United States and Europe in February. Kits is also scheduled to give concerts in Estonia in November.