Cleveland Orchestra Announce New Principal Violist

The Cleveland Orchestra has today announced the appointment of 31 year old violist, Wesley Collins as their new Principal Viola

The Cleveland Orchestra has today announced the appointment of 31 year old violist, Wesley Collins as their new Principal Viola - effective from September of this year.

He will replace Robert Vernon, who served the leader's chair for the past 40 years - the longest tenure of any string Principal in Cleveland Orchestra history.

“I’m excited for the opportunity … to make music with this amazing group of musicians …. I'm truly humbled to join this dream viola section,” Wesley has said, in a statement.

A graduate of the Cleveland Institute of music, where he studied with the outgoing leader, Wesley has served as a section member with the Boston Symphony Orchestra since 2012.

“I have the greatest respect for Mr Vernon as a musician, teacher and individual - and I’m extremely grateful for his guidance throughout my career,” Wesley has said.