It is with great pride and admiration that I extend my warmest congratulations to Stefán Ragnar Höskuldsson on his appointment as Principal Flutist of the Berliner Philharmoniker — a position of the highest distinction in the orchestral world.

Stefán is an artist of rare caliber. His career — from his early years with the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, to nearly a decade as Principal Flute of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra — has been defined by elegance of tone, precision of technique, and a profound musical insight that resonates with audiences everywhere. In Berlin, he joins a lineage of legendary flutists who have shaped one of the most revered orchestral sounds in history.

Since 2009, Stefán has performed exclusively on an Emanuel Flute. To hear my instrument in his hands is to be reminded of why I chose this craft — to create a voice capable of infinite color, nuance, and expression. His artistry continually pushes the instrument to its fullest potential, and it is a privilege to have been part of his musical journey for so many years.

In January 2025, Stefán was named Performer of the Year 2024 at the Global Flute Excellence Awards, an honor decided by a distinguished panel of 52 judges from 19 countries. This recognition, like his Berlin appointment, speaks to the universal respect he commands as both a performer and an ambassador for the flute.

For a flute maker, there can be no greater reward than to see one’s work chosen by an artist of such vision and integrity — and to know that it will now contribute to the legacy of the Berliner Philharmoniker. I look forward to hearing the next chapter of his artistry unfold.

— Emanuel Arista