The Radio-Symphonie-Orchester Berlin (RSB) is a classical music ensemble based in Berlin, Germany. The orchestra was founded in 1923 as the Berlin Radio Symphony Orchestra, and has since become one of the most renowned orchestras in Europe. The RSB was originally established as a radio orchestra, and was intended to provide music for the newly emerging medium of radio broadcasting. The orchestra's first conductor was Hermann Abendroth, who led the ensemble until 1933. During this time, the RSB became known for its innovative programming and high-quality performances. In 1933, the Nazi regime came to power in Germany, and the RSB was forced to disband. Many of its members were Jewish or had other connections to groups that were targeted by the Nazis, and were therefore unable to continue performing. However, after the end of World War II, the orchestra was re-established as the Berlin Radio Symphony Orchestra, and began to rebuild its reputation as one of the leading orchestras in Europe. Over the years, the RSB has been led by a number of distinguished conductors, including Ferenc Fricsay, Lorin Maazel, and Riccardo Chailly. Under their leadership, the orchestra has performed a wide range of repertoire, from classical works by Mozart and Beethoven to contemporary pieces by living composers. One of the highlights of the RSB's history was its performance at the 1987 Salzburg Festival, where it played Mahler's Symphony No. 8 under the baton of Leonard Bernstein. The performance was widely acclaimed, and helped to cement the RSB's reputation as one of the world's leading orchestras. In addition to its performances, the RSB has also been recognized for its recordings. The orchestra has won numerous awards for its recordings of works by composers such as Brahms, Bruckner, and Mahler. Its recording of Mahler's Symphony No. 9, conducted by Riccardo Chailly, won the Gramophone Award for Best Orchestral Recording in 1999. Today, the RSB continues to be one of the leading orchestras in Europe. Its current chief conductor is Vladimir Jurowski, who took over the position in 2017. Under his leadership, the orchestra has continued to perform a wide range of repertoire, and has collaborated with a number of leading soloists and conductors. In conclusion, the Radio-Symphonie-Orchester Berlin is a classical music ensemble with a rich history and a reputation for excellence. From its founding as a radio orchestra in 1923 to its current status as one of the leading orchestras in Europe, the RSB has played an important role in the development of classical music. Its performances and recordings have been widely acclaimed, and its members have included some of the most talented musicians in the world.

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