Founded in 1998 by Austrian conductor Oswald Sallaberger [de; fr],[1] the orchestra is one of France's leading musical institutions. British conductor Ben Glassberg was offered the conductorship and his appointment was effective from the commencement of the 2020–2021 season.[2][3]
Orchestra
Overview
The orchestra was formed in 1998 by Oswald Sallaberger in an endeavour to organize a professional orchestra in the city of Rouen.[4]
Based on a Mozart formation,[clarification needed] the orchestra is made up of more than 40 permanent musicians. It is often reinforced by additional non-permanent artists, enriching the breadth of the orchestra and allowing for special musical programs and events requiring a larger ensemble.
The orchestra is alternately conducted by its current musical director, Leo Hussain, or by local and foreign guest conductors who impulse a continuously renewed and refreshed approach to music.
The orchestra also organizes concerts requiring catgut strings instruments and traditional bows, offering musicians the opportunity to fully express their talents. The orchestra also highly encourages its musicians to further develop their technicality and widen their personal scope by programming concerts of chamber music and allowing them to perform as soloists.[5] It is France's first orchestra to offer that alternative.
International recognition
It holds musical performances worldwide, either in Normandy, in other regions of France or in overseas countries. The orchestra has toured to cities such as Bruges, Brussels, Delhi, Hanover, Havana, Luxembourg, New York City and Paris. The orchestra benefits from international recognition and was acclaimed on numerous occasions for the professionalism displayed in its rendition of musical masterpieces.[5]
Musical direction
Current directorship
Ben Glassberg was appointed conductor of the orchestra upon the termination of Hussain's contract. The orchestra's founding director, Oswald Sallaberger, is still closely involved in the running of the musical institution.
