Ever since its first concert, in 1954, the São Paulo Symphony Orchestra (OSESP) has mapped out an ambitious route, arriving at its present standing as an institution recognized for its excellence. It has released more than 60 recordings, which have received critical acclaim worldwide. OSESP has become an integral part of the culture of São Paulo and Brazil, promoting profound cultural and social change. Besides making tours in Latin America, the USA, Europe and Brazil, the orchestra in 2008 set up OSESP Itinerante (‘OSESP on the move’), a project reaching out into the entire state of São Paulo, and providing concerts, workshops, and courses in music appreciation for over 170,000 people annually. In 2012 Marin Alsop took up the post of principal conductor of OSESP, and the following year she was appointed the orchestra’s music director, taking it on a tour to Paris, London and Berlin. The Brazilian conductor Celso Antunes is currently the orchestra’s associate conductor.
