Period

:

Classical

 

 

Romantic

Genre

:

Concerto

 

 

Opera

 

The Swiss-Italian Radio Orchestra, also known as 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 founded by the Swiss-Italian Radio Broadcasting Company, which was established in 1933. The company's goal was to promote Italian culture in Switzerland, and the orchestra was a key part of this mission. The OSI's first conductor was Mario Rossi, who led the ensemble until 1940. Over the years, the orchestra has had many distinguished conductors, including Hermann Scherchen, Sergiu Celibidache, and Peter Maag. The OSI is made up of around 80 musicians, and it performs a wide range of classical music, from Baroque to contemporary. The orchestra has a particular focus on Italian music, and it has premiered many works by Italian composers. The OSI has also collaborated with many renowned soloists, including Martha Argerich, Maurizio Pollini, and Yo-Yo Ma. One of the highlights of the OSI's history was its performance at the 1956 Venice Biennale. The orchestra performed a program of Italian music, including works by Verdi, Rossini, and Respighi. The performance was a great success, and it helped to establish the OSI as one of the leading orchestras in Europe. In 1963, the OSI moved into its current home, the Auditorio Stelio Molo in Lugano. The auditorium was designed specifically for the orchestra, and it has excellent acoustics. The OSI has since become a key part of the cultural life of Lugano, and it regularly performs concerts in the city and throughout Switzerland. Over the years, the OSI has won many awards and accolades. In 1996, the orchestra was awarded the Grand Prix du Disque for its recording of Respighi's "Roman Trilogy." The recording was praised for its "exquisite playing" and "impeccable ensemble." The OSI has also been nominated for several Grammy Awards, and it has won numerous other international prizes. In recent years, the OSI has continued to thrive under the leadership of its current conductor, Markus Poschner. Poschner, who took over as conductor in 2015, has been praised for his "passionate and energetic" performances. Under his leadership, the OSI has continued to explore new repertoire and to collaborate with leading soloists and conductors. Overall, the Swiss-Italian Radio Orchestra is a world-class ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the cultural life of Switzerland and Europe. With its focus on Italian music and its commitment to excellence, the OSI is sure to continue to be a leading force in the classical music world for many years to come.

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