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The Orchestra della Svizzera Italiana (OSI) is a classical music ensemble based in Lugano, Switzerland. The orchestra was founded in 1935 as the Orchestra della Radio della Svizzera Italiana, and it has since become one of the most renowned orchestras in Europe. The OSI was established as a radio orchestra, and it was initially composed of only 18 musicians. However, the orchestra quickly grew in size and reputation, and it began to perform regularly in concerts and recordings. In 1952, the orchestra was renamed the Orchestra della Svizzera Italiana, and it became a permanent ensemble. Over the years, the OSI has been led by many distinguished conductors, including Hermann Scherchen, Sergiu Celibidache, and Peter Maag. The orchestra has also collaborated with many renowned soloists, such as Martha Argerich, Yehudi Menuhin, and Maurizio Pollini. One of the highlights of the OSI's history was its performance at the 1955 Lucerne Festival, where it played under the baton of the legendary conductor Arturo Toscanini. The concert was a great success, and it helped to establish the orchestra's reputation as one of the finest in Europe. In the 1960s and 1970s, the OSI continued to grow and develop, and it began to tour extensively throughout Europe and the United States. The orchestra also recorded many acclaimed albums during this period, including a series of recordings of the complete symphonies of Beethoven and Brahms. In the 1980s and 1990s, the OSI underwent a period of transition, as it welcomed new conductors and musicians into its ranks. The orchestra also began to explore new repertoire, performing works by contemporary composers such as Luciano Berio and György Ligeti. In recent years, the OSI has continued to thrive, and it has become known for its innovative programming and collaborations with other artists and ensembles. The orchestra has also received many awards and accolades, including the Swiss Music Prize in 2012. One of the most notable recent highlights of the OSI's history was its performance at the 2019 BBC Proms in London. The orchestra played a program of works by Swiss composers, including Frank Martin's Concerto for Seven Wind Instruments and Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring. The concert was a great success, and it helped to showcase the OSI's versatility and artistry to a wider audience. Overall, the Orchestra della Svizzera Italiana has a rich and storied history, and it continues to be one of the most respected and admired orchestras in Europe. With its commitment to excellence and innovation, the OSI is sure to remain a vital force in the world of classical music for many years to come.

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