Sebastian Comberti to leave LMP after 40 memorable years as Principal Cello

All of us at LMP wish Sebastian Comberti a very fond farewell as he steps down as our Principal Cello in Summer 2025. Sebastian joined LMP as Principal Cello in 1983 and has played a crucial role in shaping who LMP are today.

 

“It’s no easy task summarising the impact Sebastian has had on LMP – not least because he has been an integral part of our orchestra for over 40 years. Sebastian’s involvement, ranging from his role as Principal Cello, contributing to our meaningful education work, programming our much loved Eastbourne residency and of course his important role on the LMP Board, is admirable and we are so grateful for his dedication. I speak for many when I say Sebastian will be much missed and we wish him the very best for the future.”
– Flynn Le Brocq, Chief Executive

 

“Sebastian has been an integral part of LMP for over four decades. He has been a source of inspiration to me with his musical integrity, his wealth of knowledge and experience as well as his inimitable honesty and charm. Sebastian played a vital role in steering the LMP out of murky waters and into the warmer seas it currently sails. He has curated many sensational Eastbourne programmes with informative, interesting and educational talks. I have loved playing chamber music with him and have learnt a huge amount from him. It is impossible to measure just how much he has given to LMP and the orchestra owes him a huge debt of gratitude. He will be deeply missed.”
– Ruth Rogers, Leader

 

“Sebastian is an LMP legend – in my mind he is synonymous with the orchestra. He has been principal cello for over 40 years, and brings his accumulated wisdom and experience to every concert, yet still arrives at rehearsals buzzing with new ideas, constantly searching out new repertoire and finding ways to refresh the old. It’s hard to imagine LMP without him!”
– Simon Blendis, Leader

 

“Sebastian is so full of knowledge and joy for the music he is performing, not to mention an utterly fearless cellist. It has been an amazing time being in a section with him these last 25 years. His enthusiasm for the cello, his thirst for discovering new repertoire and his stylistic awareness has been inspiring. Many good and happy memories. It is the end of an era!”
– Sarah Butcher, Cello

 

“Sebastian joined LMP about 40 years ago and as I was already member, I was delighted when this young, fresh and superb Cellist joined us. He then played consistently beautifully ever since. When the players took over running the orchestra in 2016, Sebastian became an invaluable member of the Board of Directors. His clear thinking, combined with his ability to offer thoughtful and often refreshing alternative perspectives, made a significant contribution to the group. Sebastian has also always been a very kind and caring person and will be missed hugely. Thank you for everything.”
– Peter Wright, Trumpet