Founded in 1946 by Sir Thomas Beecham, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra continues to maintain his legacy by offering audiences the highest possible standards of music making, in collaboration with some of the most acclaimed artists of the day. Having been directed by some of the world’s finest conductors, most notably Rudolf Kempe, Antal Doráti, André Previn and Vladimir Ashkenazy, it continues to thrive under the inspired leadership of Maestro Daniele Gatti. London-based, the Orchestra performs regularly at the Royal Albert Hall, Royal Festival Hall and, as Resident Orchestra, Cadogan Hall, complementing these high-profile appearances with a comprehensive regional touring programme and numerous open-air summer concerts. It has toured more than thirty countries in the last five years, with significant engagements at the Vatican and in Tiananmen Square, Beijing. The Orchestra extends its artistic work through a vibrant and innovative Community and Education programme, initiating projects with homeless people, youth clubs, the probation service, schools and families. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra records widely, also on its own record label. At the beginning of the 2009 / 2010 season, Charles Dutoit will become Artistic Director and Principal Conductor, Daniele Gatti continuing as Conductor Laureate. www.rpo.co.uk