The Belgian Radio & Television Philharmonic Orchestra, also known as the Brussels Philharmonic, is a renowned classical music ensemble based in Brussels, Belgium. The orchestra was founded in 1935 as the Belgian National Radio Orchestra, and has since become one of the most respected and celebrated orchestras in Europe. The founding of the Belgian National Radio Orchestra was a response to the growing popularity of radio broadcasting in Belgium in the 1930s. The orchestra was established as a way to provide high-quality musical performances for radio audiences, and to promote classical music throughout the country. The orchestra's first conductor was Franz André, who led the ensemble until 1957. Over the years, the Belgian National Radio Orchestra underwent several name changes, reflecting changes in the organization that oversaw the orchestra. In 1964, the orchestra became the Belgian Radio and Television Philharmonic Orchestra, and in 1998 it was renamed the Brussels Philharmonic. Throughout its history, the Brussels Philharmonic has been home to many talented musicians and conductors. Some of the orchestra's most notable conductors include André Cluytens, Georges Octors, and Michel Tabachnik. The orchestra has also collaborated with many renowned soloists, including pianist Martha Argerich, violinist Joshua Bell, and cellist Yo-Yo Ma. One of the highlights of the Brussels Philharmonic's history was its performance at the 1958 World Expo in Brussels. The orchestra performed a series of concerts throughout the Expo, showcasing the best of Belgian classical music to an international audience. The orchestra's performance was widely praised, and helped to establish the ensemble as one of the premier orchestras in Europe. In addition to its performances at the World Expo, the Brussels Philharmonic has also been recognized for its many recordings and performances of contemporary classical music. The orchestra has premiered works by many notable composers, including John Adams, Philip Glass, and Arvo Pärt. The orchestra's commitment to contemporary music has earned it numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious Flanders Culture Award in 2010. Another highlight of the Brussels Philharmonic's history was its performance at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival. The orchestra performed the score for the film "The Congress," which was directed by Ari Folman. The performance was widely praised, and helped to establish the Brussels Philharmonic as one of the premier orchestras for film music. In recent years, the Brussels Philharmonic has continued to build on its reputation as one of the premier orchestras in Europe. The orchestra has performed at many of the world's most prestigious concert halls, including the Royal Albert Hall in London and the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam. The orchestra has also continued to collaborate with many renowned soloists and conductors, including pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet and conductor Stéphane Denève. Overall, the Brussels Philharmonic has a rich and storied history, marked by many notable performances and collaborations. The orchestra's commitment to promoting classical music and contemporary classical music has earned it numerous awards and accolades, and has helped to establish it as one of the premier orchestras in Europe. With its talented musicians and dedicated leadership, the Brussels Philharmonic is sure to continue to delight audiences for many years to come.

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