Saturday, September 27, 2008

Taipei Symphony Orchestra

The Taipei Symphony Orchestra , founded in 1969, is one of the leading orchestras based in Taipei, Taiwan.

After a series of election concerts, TSO engaged Martin Fischer-Dieskau as new Music Director Designate in January, 2008.

Introduction


Under the direction of Felix Chen from 1986 to 2003, the Orchestra grew in size and strength, the number of orchestra members increased, and the length of the season expanded. He also broadened the Orchestra's repertoire by introducing new and unfamiliar works from all music styles and periods, while maintaining the highest standard of traditional classical music. For the 2004 season, the Taipei City Government nominated the well-known bassoonist, Chia-Chu Hsu as the General Director.

Taipei Music Festival


In 1979, ''Taipei Music Festival'', instructed by former Taipei City Mayor Lee Teng-hui, was created to promote cultural activity within the island of Taiwan. Over the years, the festival has been recognized worldwide for its successful performances and international roster of artists, such as the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, St. Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra, Russian State Philharmonic Orchestra, Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra, Bamberger Symphoniker, Budapest Symphony Orchestra, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France, and Rundfunk-Sinfonie Orchester Berlin.

The opera produced by TSO in the festival every year is also an important musical event in the island. TSO has performed La traviata, , Carmen, Turandot, La bohème, Aida, Madama Butterfly, Cavalleria rusticana, Pagliacci, Otello, , and .

Music directors and principal conductors


* Teng Chang-kuo , 1969–1973
* Chen Tun-chu , 1973-1986
* Felix Chen, 1986-2003
* András Ligeti, 2005-2007
* Martin Fischer-Dieskau, 2008-present

Current members


''As of December 11, 2006.''
; General director: Hsu Chia-chu
; Deputy director: Chen Shu-shi
; Concertmasters: Daniel Wei-chung Chiang, Chiang Chih-i

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