Budapest Symphony Orchestra

Established in 1943 by conductor Ernst von Dohnányi, the Symphony Orchestra of the Hungarian Radio and Television now appears internationally under the name Budapest Symphony Orchestra, even as its performances remain transmitted within Hungary and beyond its borders. Acclaim has followed the ensemble for its readings of Hungarian symphonic repertoire, above all pieces by living composers. Guest podiums have been occupied in both live appearances and studio sessions by a distinguished roster that includes Otto Klemperer, Carlo Zecchi, István Kertész, Aldo Ceccato, Peter Eötvös, Claudio Abbado, Lamberto Gardelli, Antal Doráti, Georg Solti, Sir John Barbirolli, and Leopold Stokowski. The music directors appointed since the founding are János Ferencsik (1945), Tibor Polgár (1945), Lázló Somogyi (1951), György Lehel (1956), András Ligeti (1989), and Tamás Vásáry (1993). Vásáry led the orchestra in a Beethoven symphony cycle issued by Hungaroton. The ensemble has undertaken repeated tours throughout Europe and North America.