Symphony Orchestra, Lucerne

The Lucerne Symphony Orchestra, established in 1805, holds the distinction of being the oldest orchestra in Switzerland. They have a diverse performance schedule, including regular concerts at the Culture and Convention Center Luzern and participation in all opera productions at the Luzerner Theater. Since 2022, they have been hosting the annual "Le piano symphonique" piano festival.

Their repertoire is quite extensive, ranging from Classical-Romantic classics to lesser-known pieces and contemporary compositions. They have commissioned works from notable composers such as Sofia Gubaidulina, Dieter Ammann, Rodion Shchedrin, Thomas Adès, and Wolfgang Rihm.

Over the years, the orchestra has had significant leadership from conductors like Jonathan Nott (1997-2002) and James Gaffigan (2010-2021). Currently, Michael Sanderling is at the helm since the 2021-22 season. They have also welcomed esteemed guest conductors like Constantinos Carydis, Thomas Dausgaard, Charles Dutoit, Marek Janowski, Juanjo Mena, Andris Nelsons, and John Storgårds.

The orchestra frequently collaborates with renowned soloists like Martha Arge-rich, Rudolf Buchbinder, Renaud and Gautier Capuçon, Hélène Grimaud, Daniil Trifonov, and Krystian Zimerman in their subscription concerts.

Their extensive body of work is documented through numerous recordings, some of which have received awards. In 2021, the Lucerne Symphony Orchestra relocated to the Orchesterhaus on the Südpol Campus. They are committed to nurturing young talent through their orchestra academy and "Rising Stars" series, in addition to offering a comprehensive music education program that earned them the "Young Ears Prize" in 2018.

It's worth noting that the Lucerne Symphony Orchestra made its Lucerne Festival (IMF) debut on 23 August 1993, with Vladimir Kiradjiev conducting works by Schnittke.