An orchestra is an instrumental ensemble, usually with string, brass, woodwind sections, and possibly a percussion section as well; a smaller orchestra (of about fifty players or fewer) is called a chamber orchestra. One such instrumental ensemble is the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, based in New York City. It is known for its collaborative leadership style, in which the musicians, not a conductor, interpret the score. Over its history, Orpheus has built a legacy through its acclaimed recordings, performances, and collaborations with the world’s most dynamic and esteemed soloists. Orpheus is an orchestra without a conductor, whose members share a common vision for each performance.

The Orpheus Chamber Orchestra has the unique practice of sharing and rotating leadership roles. For every work, the members of the orchestra select the concertmaster and the principal players for each section. This core group’s role is to form the initial concept of the piece and to shape the rehearsal process. Orpheus developed its approach to the study and performance of this repertoire by bringing to the orchestral setting a sense of peering and granted trust amongst its members. In the final rehearsals, all members of the orchestra participate in refining the interpretation and execution, with members taking turns listening from the hall for balance, blend, articulation, dynamic range and clarity of expression.

Members of Orpheus have received recognition for their soloist work, chamber music and orchestral performances. Each brings a diversity of musical experience to the orchestra, which constantly enriches and nurtures the musical growth of the ensemble. The Orpheus Chamber Orchestra has recorded over 70 albums and has earned rave reviews as one of the premier musical ensembles in the world. The Orpheus Chamber Orchestra is a world-renowned, Grammy Award-winning classical music , chamber orchestra. Sharing recognition and rewards is a common tenet of the members of Orpheus.

Orpheus Chamber Orchestra is a long-lasting collaboration. Cellist Julian Fifer and a group of fellow musicians, who aspired to perform orchestral repertoire using chamber music ensemble techniques, founded Orpheus in 1972. Today, the Orpheus’ 2008-2009 season continues its rich tradition of collaboration with leading soloists and composers in New York, throughout the United States, and abroad.