Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Classical

 

 

Romantic

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Opera

 

The Hilversum Radio Symphony Chorus is a classical music ensemble that has been active since 1945. It is based in Hilversum, Netherlands, and is known for its exceptional performances of choral works from various periods of classical music. The ensemble was founded by Albert van Raalte, who was the conductor of the Hilversum Radio Symphony Orchestra at the time. He wanted to create a chorus that could perform alongside the orchestra and enhance the overall sound of their performances. The first members of the chorus were recruited from the Hilversum Radio Choir, which had been active since 1929. The Hilversum Radio Symphony Chorus quickly gained a reputation for excellence, and it became a regular fixture in the Dutch classical music scene. The chorus has performed with many renowned conductors and soloists over the years, including Bernard Haitink, Nikolaus Harnoncourt, and Cecilia Bartoli. One of the highlights of the chorus's early years was its performance of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony in 1951. This was a significant achievement for the ensemble, as it was the first time that a Dutch chorus had performed this iconic work. The performance was well-received by both audiences and critics, and it helped to establish the chorus as one of the leading ensembles in the Netherlands. In the following years, the Hilversum Radio Symphony Chorus continued to perform a wide range of choral works, from Bach's Mass in B Minor to Verdi's Requiem. The chorus also collaborated with other orchestras and ensembles, both in the Netherlands and abroad. One notable collaboration was with the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, with whom the chorus performed Mahler's Eighth Symphony in 1988. The chorus has also been recognized for its outstanding performances and contributions to the classical music world. In 1970, it was awarded the prestigious Edison Award for its recording of Bach's St. Matthew Passion. This was the first time that a Dutch ensemble had received this award, and it was a significant achievement for the chorus. Another notable achievement for the Hilversum Radio Symphony Chorus was its participation in the 1999 Holland Festival. The chorus performed in a production of Stravinsky's Oedipus Rex, which was directed by Peter Sellars and conducted by Esa-Pekka Salonen. The production was highly acclaimed, and it helped to further establish the chorus's reputation as one of the leading ensembles in Europe. Today, the Hilversum Radio Symphony Chorus continues to perform regularly, both in the Netherlands and abroad. The ensemble is made up of around 100 members, who are all highly skilled and dedicated musicians. The chorus is currently led by conductor Gijs Leenaars, who has been praised for his innovative and dynamic approach to choral music. In conclusion, the Hilversum Radio Symphony Chorus is a classical music ensemble that has made significant contributions to the Dutch and European classical music scenes. Its founding by Albert van Raalte in 1945 marked the beginning of a long and successful history, which has included many outstanding performances and collaborations with renowned conductors and soloists. The chorus's dedication to excellence and its commitment to performing a wide range of choral works have helped to establish it as one of the leading ensembles in Europe.

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