Stefán Ragnar Höskuldsson Principal flute

A smiling Stefán Ragnar Höskuldsson in glasses and a black shirt holds a flute upright in front of a bright yellow background.
Stefán Ragnar Höskuldsson | Picture: Stefan Höderath

Information


Facts

Born in Neskaupstaður, Iceland
Member since 01.09.2025


Biography

Stefán Ragnar Höskuldsson’s appointment to the Berliner Philharmoniker is already his third position as principal flautist: he had already held equivalent positions in the orchestra of the Metropolitan Opera in New York from 2008 to 2016 and in the Chicago Symphony Orchestra from 2015 to 2025. Born in Iceland, he began his musical training at the Reykjavík School of Music with Bernhard Wilkinson before continuing his studies at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester with Peter Lloyd. In addition to his work in the orchestra, Stefán Ragnar Höskuldsson is a sought-after soloist and chamber musician who performs regularly in the US, Europe, and Japan. The flautist also passes on his knowledge as a teacher at the DePaul University School of Music, the Pacific Music Festival, and in numerous master classes.

Background

Behind the music: Stefán Ragnar Höskuldsson
Video portrait

Video: Tobias Möller / Adam Janisch

New York is the city that has shaped Stefán Ragnar Höskuldsson most profoundly, both personally and musically. He was principal flute at the Metropolitan Opera before taking up the same position with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and, in September 2025, the Berliner Philharmoniker. In our video, he reflects on what distinguishes these stages of his career – and what connects them. We also join the Icelandic flautist at a masterclass, where he talks with young musicians about the fear of making mistakes and the importance of creativity.

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