The Orchestre de la Suisse Romande has appointed Johanna Schellenberger principal harpist, following auditions held in June 2024. She began her position on Oct. 1.
“The Orchestre de la Suisse Romande (OSR) is a fantastic ensemble with extraordinary conductors, located by the beautiful Lake Geneva in Switzerland. I feel incredibly fortunate to have won this position and am eager to begin what I know will be a wonderful collaboration with the orchestra,” Schellenberger says. “I am now looking forward to being part of a symphonic orchestra that has premiered much of Stravinsky’s work and has deep roots in French repertoire, which perfectly showcases the versatile sound world of the harp.”
Schellenberger was previously principal harpist of the Sächsische Staatskapelle Dresden for five years. She also performs regularly as guest principal harpist with leading orchestras such as the Orchestre National de France, the Bamberg Symphony, and the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, among others. Schellenberger has performed in many of the world’s most prestigious concert halls, including the Musikverein in Vienna, the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg, the Royal Albert Hall in London, and the Großes Festspielhaus in Salzburg.
Schellenberger’s solo and chamber music performances feature a range of artistic endeavors, including musical cabaret, various programs combining acting and dance, and collaborations with contemporary composers. She plans to release an album in the upcoming year focusing on the rediscovery and publication of works by female composers.
Schellenberger studied with Cristina Bianchi during her bachelor’s at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Munich. To learn more, visit her website.
