The Symphony Orchestra of Vlaamse Opera Antwerp/Ghent is a classical music ensemble based in Belgium. The orchestra was founded in 1996 as the Symphony Orchestra of the Flemish Opera, and it has since become one of the most renowned orchestras in the country. The founding of the Symphony Orchestra of Vlaamse Opera Antwerp/Ghent was a result of the merger of two opera companies in Flanders, the Royal Flemish Opera in Antwerp and the Flemish Opera in Ghent. The merger was aimed at creating a stronger and more efficient opera company that could better serve the cultural needs of the Flemish people. The orchestra's main members are highly skilled musicians who have been trained in some of the best music schools in Europe. The orchestra is led by its principal conductor, Dmitri Jurowski, who has been with the orchestra since 2011. Jurowski is a highly respected conductor who has worked with some of the most prestigious orchestras in the world, including the London Philharmonic Orchestra and the Berlin Philharmonic. The Symphony Orchestra of Vlaamse Opera Antwerp/Ghent has performed in some of the most prestigious concert halls in Europe, including the Royal Albert Hall in London, the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, and the Philharmonie de Paris. The orchestra has also performed at major music festivals, such as the Edinburgh International Festival and the Salzburg Festival. One of the highlights of the orchestra's performances was its participation in the 2013 production of Wagner's Ring Cycle at the Flemish Opera. The production was directed by Guy Cassiers and featured a cast of world-class singers, including Linda Watson, Lance Ryan, and Albert Dohmen. The orchestra's performance was widely praised for its precision and emotional depth, and it helped to establish the orchestra as one of the leading ensembles in Europe. The Symphony Orchestra of Vlaamse Opera Antwerp/Ghent has also received numerous awards and accolades for its performances. In 2015, the orchestra was awarded the prestigious Klara Award for Best Orchestra, which is given annually by the Flemish public radio station Klara. The award recognized the orchestra's outstanding performances and its contribution to the cultural life of Flanders. In addition to its performances, the Symphony Orchestra of Vlaamse Opera Antwerp/Ghent is also committed to promoting music education and outreach programs. The orchestra regularly collaborates with local schools and community organizations to provide music education and performance opportunities for young people. Overall, the Symphony Orchestra of Vlaamse Opera Antwerp/Ghent is a world-class ensemble that has established itself as one of the leading orchestras in Europe. With its highly skilled musicians, talented conductor, and commitment to music education and outreach, the orchestra is sure to continue to delight audiences and inspire young musicians for years to come.

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