Osesp

The São Paulo State Symphony Orchestra (OSESP) gave its first concert in 1954. Since then it has had a long history of achievements which culminated in an institution that is now recognized internationally for the excellence of its production. The Orchestra is an important part of the state's cultural scene as well as an agent of evolution and creation of a new model for concert music and a reference for the management of culture in our country. During its first years the São Paulo State Symphony Orchestra was directed by Maestro Souza Lima and then by the Italian conductor Bruno Roccella. Later, the Brazilian conductor Eleazar de Carvalho accepted the position of music director and stayed at the Orchestra's helm for 24 years. In 1997 Maestro John Neschling was taken on as the Orchestras artistic director, with the conductor Roberto Minczuk as his assistant. Auditions were held with musicians from around the world, and higher wages and better working conditions were offered. The Sala São Paulo (São Paulo Concert Hall) was opened in 1999 and, in following years, a number of other projects were put into operation, including four different choirs (the Symphony, Chamber, Youth and Children's choirs). The São Paulo State Symphony Orchestra Foundation was set up in 2005, representing a positive milestone in the Orchestra's history. With former Brazilian President Fernando Henrique Cardoso as President of the Board of Directors, the foundation has put new standards of management in place, which have since become references for the Brazilian cultural environment in general. Recently indicated by the English magazine Gramophone as one of three up-and-coming ensembles among the worlds greatest orchestras, the São Paulo State Symphony Orchestra represents a continuation of its original project of constant expansion of Brazilian musical culture, and is opening its 2009 season under the new head conductor, the French Yan Pascal Tortelier.