Cellist Brey's 30-Year Philharmonic Farewell

Carter Brey, principal cellist of the New York Philharmonic, is retiring at the end of the current season after a remarkable 30-year career. His decision to leave was not easy, as his personal identity became intertwined with his role at the esteemed institution. Brey, aged 71, aimed to retire while still performing at his peak. This week marks Brey's farewell to his hometown orchestra with park concerts, performing Saint-Saëns's Cello Concerto No. 1. He will also perform this piece during the orchestra's summer residency in Colorado. Brey's performances are noted for their rhythmic imagination and kinetic energy, reflecting his athletic pursuits, including sailing and marathon running. For encores, he has performed his own composition, 'Tango para Ilaria.' His wife shared that Brey's choice to leave a soloist career for the Philharmonic was influenced by a desire to be present for their children, recalling a past instance where he missed a month with his newborn son due to travel disruptions. Colleagues describe Brey as a larger-than-life, gentlemanly, and erudite figure, with principal violist Cynthia Phelps humorously calling him a 'living ChatGPT.' Brey is known for his intellectual curiosity and ability to connect with people of all ages. Brey has strived to foster a collaborative culture within the orchestra, encouraging mutual understanding in musical decisions and reminding players of their essential roles. This spirit of camaraderie is evident in his actions, such as rejoining his cello section for bows after solo performances. Looking ahead, Brey and his wife anticipate more leisure travel and sailing. He has also applied for Italian citizenship to facilitate extended European trips. His wife emphasized that while his role as principal cellist is ending, his identity as a musician will remain with him always.