Roger Wilkie: Celebrating 35 Years as Concertmaster
This 2025-26 season marks Roger Wilkie’s 35th year as Long Beach Symphony’s Concertmaster!
“Much has changed, but one thing has not – Long Beach Symphony is my family, my community, and my place to share the joy of music with you,“ said Wilke.
A Southern California native, violinist Roger Wilkie’s professional career began at age 21 when he joined the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, eventually being appointed Principal Second Violin, a position he held until 1989. He has also served as Guest Concertmaster with the LA Opera, Los Angeles Master Chorale, and the Real Filharmonia De Galicia, Spain under Music Director, Helmut Rilling. Roger’s career extends to the Hollywood Studios, where he has participated in the soundtracks of over 1000 films as well as television recordings. In 2005 he received the honor of serving as Concertmaster for John Williams’ scores for Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Indiana Jones IV, Munich, and Memoirs of a Geisha. You may hear his solo work on the score of the movie A Single Man and a violin solo in The Adventures of Tintin score by John Williams. Wilkie has also performed on scores for Spider-Man: Homecoming, Deadpool, Avatar, Gone Girl, The Town and many more. Read more…
“Roger exemplifies the role of the perfect concertmaster: A quiet leader in full support of the conductor, a mind reader par excellence, a fabulous musician with incredible technique and gorgeous sound, and a musical model for all: The violin section, the string section as well as the entire orchestra. Attentive to every detail, always shaping cohesiveness of the entire ensemble, and beautiful in all concertmaster solos, he displays not only the highest work ethic but an incredible spirit that brings people together and makes music come alive. Roger is dream to work with – and it is an honor to call him a friend,” says Eckart Preu, Long Beach Symphony Music Director.
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