Orpheus Chamber Orchestra

Founded in 1972 by cellist Julian Fifer, the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra is a pioneering ensemble based in New York City, known for its collaborative and democratic approach to music-making without a conductor. This innovative model allows for rotating leadership roles among its members, mirroring the dynamics of chamber music within a larger orchestral setting. Orpheus quickly gained international acclaim, establishing a residency at Carnegie Hall and embarking on global tours. The orchestra's extensive discography includes over 70 albums across labels like Deutsche Grammophon and Nonesuch, featuring a repertoire that spans from Haydn and Mozart to twentieth-century composers like Stravinsky and Bartók. Orpheus has collaborated with a wide array of guest artists, from classical soloists like Richard Goode and Branford Marsalis to jazz musicians and composers, continually expanding the boundaries of the chamber orchestra genre. The ensemble's commitment to community engagement is evident through initiatives like Orpheus Reflections, targeting those living with Alzheimer’s Disease, and Access Orpheus, which reaches nearly 2000 public school students in New York City annually. As it embarks on its next fifty years, Orpheus remains dedicated to enriching lives through extraordinary musical experiences, emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and artistic excellence. This commitment is further demonstrated by its recent endeavors to diversify programming and engage with a broader spectrum of composers and musical styles, ensuring its relevance and impact on future generations.