Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra

The Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra ranks among Europe’s foremost orchestras, being internationally known for the intense energy of its performances, its acclaimed recordings and its innovative audience approach. The Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra was founded in 1918. From 1930, under chief conductor Eduard Flipse, it developed into one of the foremost orchestras of the Netherlands. In the 1970s, with Jean Fournet and Edo de Waart, the orchestra gained international recognition. In 1995, Valery Gergiev’s appointment as music director heralded a new period of bloom. He was succeeded by Yannick Nézet-Séguin, with whom the orchestra has made numerous successful tours and recordings. In 2013 Jiří Bělohlávek joined the Rotterdam Philharmonic as its principal guest conductor.

Home of the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra is De Doelen Concert Hall, but the orchestra can frequently be heard in other locations – from local venues to the most prestigious halls and festivals at home and abroad. In 2010 the orchestra assumed a residency in the Paris Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, where it is one of the principal guest orchestras. The orchestra’s worldwide presence is further enhanced by its extensive recording catalogue, ranging from the ground-breaking performances with Eduard Flipse to today’s critically lauded recordings with Yannick Nézet-Séguin.