Best Symphony Orchestras in the World
In 2008 Gramophone, one of the world's most respected classical music publications since its inception in 1923, took on the monumental task of ranking the world's best orchestras. With a panel consisting of eleven renowned music critics from the United States, France, Austria, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands and Korea, Gramophone ranked only orchestras of a similar nature: modern romantic symphonies. Symphony orchestras that specialize only in a particular type of music have been omitted. Despite the many omissions, the field was left wide open and the eleven judges had to analyze a dozen dozen orchestras. It's hard enough for two people to match a top picklist, let alone eleven, so we can assume that the list, although still subjective in nature, is reliable. Even if you disagree with the ranking or lack of certain orchestras, many would agree that the orchestras on the list are definitely worth their recording.
1. Amsterdam The Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra
The Royal Concertgebouw has been performing classical music since 1888. The orchestra has a unique sound, largely because it has had only seven chief conductors since its inception. And with a collection of nearly a thousand recordings, it's easy to see why this orchestra takes its position at the top. Daniele Gatti took on the role of chief conductor for 2016-17 season. He succeeded Mariss Jansons, who was the chief conductor at the time.
2. Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
Founded in 1882, has the Philharmonic Orchestra 10 conductors led, the last of which has been Sir Simon Rattle since 2002. It's no surprise to see the Philharmonic Orchestra in this position, especially since the orchestra has won a handful of BRIT Awards under Rattle, Grammys, Gramophone Awards and more.
