Jonathan Aasgaard leaves the orchestra to pursue new performance opportunities and continue his teaching role
The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra (RLPO) has announced that its principal cello, Jonathan Aasgaard, will leave the orchestra after 26 years of service to embark on a new chapter in his career.
Aasgaard departs the ensemble to focus on expanding his solo repertoire, pursuing new performance opportunities, and continuing his teaching as professor of cello at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.
Aasgaard was appointed to the role in 1999, performing in numerous concerts and more than 40 works for cello and orchestra during his tenure. He has also appeared as guest principal with leading UK and European orchestras, and around the world as a chamber musician.
Aasgaard’s final concert with RLPO will be on 2 November 2025, where his contribution will be celebrated with performances of Mozart’s Symphony No.41, ‘Jupiter’ alongside Richard Strauss’ Also sprach Zarathustra and Haydn’s Overture, L’isola disabitata, under the baton of chief conductor Domingo Hindoyan.
He will however return to Liverpool Philharmonic in 2026 for two performances; works by Johan Svendsen with RLPO musicians on 16 February, as well as a performance cycle of Bach’s Solo Cello Suites on 15 June.
Reflecting on his time with the orchestra, Aasgaard said: ’My time with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra has been a massive chapter in my life.
’I have fallen in love with the orchestra, the city, and its people. It is with a heavy heart that I embark on this new phase of my career but it also feels good to leave on such a high and with only happy memories.
’It is hard to put into words everything that I have learnt and the many special memories over my time here. So many special concerts in every season, the highlights are many.
’This orchestra and the friendships I have made are so very special to me so it is not farewell but see you again!’
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