World's Favourite Orchestra 2013

By Bachtrack, 08 October 2013

Submissions for this form are closed. You can find the 2014 World's Favourite Orchestra poll HERE

Update: 12pm, 8th October 2013

Well, the results are in, and voting is closed... thanks to everyone who took part in this poll. We’ve been overwhelmed by the interest it’s attracted and delighted by everyone’s enthusiasm. And we’re proud to announce that the winner of the World’s Favourite Orchestra poll is:

The Cleveland Orchestra

The Clevelanders finished with an impressive 20.3% of the vote. In second place is the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, Ireland, with 12.4%, and in third is the Berlin Philharmonic with 8.5%. Here’s the full top 20.

An honorable mention as well for the locked-out Minnesota Orchestra, who finished at number 22.

A few more stats for you: since we launched this on 6th September, we had 11,895 votes from 97 countries, with 46% coming from North America and 48% from Europe (just 9%from the UK). You voted for 417 different orchestras overall.

Congratulations to all the orchestras who were voted for, and thanks again to everyone who joined in with this. We hope you get to hear your favourite orchestras soon!

And here’s the full list of the top 100 orchestras:

1 Cleveland Orchestra
2 RTÉ Concert Orchestra
3 Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
4 London Symphony Orchestra
5 Philadelphia Orchestra
6 Detroit Symphony Orchestra
7 Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra
8 Czech Philharmonic Orchestra
9 Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Amsterdam
10 Gewandhaus Orchestra Leipzig
11 Russian National Orchestra
12 Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra
13 Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra
14 Chicago Symphony Orchestra
15 Video Game Orchestra
16 Ulster Orchestra
17 European Union Youth Orchestra
18 Milan Symphony Orchestra, “La Verdi”
19 Oregon Symphony Orchestra
19 Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra
21 Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment
22 Minnesota Orchestra
23 Boston Symphony Orchestra
24 Orquesta Sinfónica Simón Bolívar
24 San Diego Symphony
26 New York Philharmonic
27 Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra
28 Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra
29 London Philharmonic Orchestra
30 Orchestra dell’Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia
31 Orquestra Sinfónica Portuguesa
32 Chamber Orchestra of Europe
33 Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra
34 Dresdner Philharmonie
34 Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
36 Borusan İstanbul Philharmonic Orchestra
37 Rotterdam Philharmonic
38 City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
39 Atlanta Symphony Orchestra
39 San Francisco Symphony
39 Staatskapelle Dresden
42 Danish National Symphony Orchestra
43 Los Angeles Philharmonic
43 RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra
45 Adelaide Symphony Orchestra
45 Bilkent Symphony Orchestra
45 Dallas Symphony Orchestra
45 Lucerne Festival Orchestra
45 Slovenian Philharmonic Orchestra
50 Cincinnati Symphony
50 Poznan Philharmonic Orchestra
52 Cape Philharmonic Orchestra
52 Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin
52 Maggio Musicale Fiorentino
52 Nashville Symphony
52 St Louis Symphony Orchestra
57 Metropolitan Opera Orchestra
57 Orquestra Sinfônica do Estado de São Paulo
59 Mariinsky Theatre Orchestra
60 St Michel Strings
61 Baltimore Symphony Orchestra
61 Britten Sinfonia
61 Budapest Festival Orchestra
61 Naples Philharmonic
61 Vienna Symphony Orchestra
66 Academy of St Martin in the Fields
66 BBC National Orchestra of Wales
66 The Hallé Orchestra
69 Danish Radio Symphony Orchestra
69 Montreal Symphony Orchestra
71 West-Eastern Divan Orchestra
72 Berner Symphonie Orchester
72 Gulbenkian Orchestra
72 Munich Philharmonic Orchestra
72 Robert-Schumann-Philharmonie
72 Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra
72 Royal Scottish National Orchestra
72 Scottish Chamber Orchestra
72 Staatskapelle Berlin
72 Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra
81 Academy of Ancient Music
81 Bamberg Symphony
81 Colorado Symphony
81 Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra
81 Seattle Symphony
81 Tonhalle Orchester Zürich
81 Toronto Symphony
88 BBC Symphony Orchestra
88 Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
88 English Baroque Soloists
88 Ensemble Intercontemporain
88 Frankfurt Radio Symphony Orchestra
88 Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester
88 Hungarian Nationa Philharmonic Orchestra
88 North Carolina Symphony
88 Orchestre Revolutionaire et Romantique
88 Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra
88 Utah Symphony
99 Euphonia Toronto
99 Explorchestra
99 Freiburger Barockorchester

The Bachtrack team
8th October 2013

Which is your favourite orchestra? Why? At Bachtrack, we have listings for so many orchestras – 466 currently have events on the site – that it can be difficult to keep up with them all, and to see what makes them all special. But we’d like to know which one – out of all the world’s orchestras – you call your favourite.

How you judge it is up to you – maybe it’s the one you think is the best technically, or the one whose sound you love the most. Maybe it’s the one you’ve been going to hear for the longest time, or the one who plays on the most of your favourite CDs. Maybe there’s an orchestra whose programming makes them stand out as particularly important to you, or one whose conductor makes the biggest impression. Whichever orchestra’s playing has touched you the most – that’s the one we want to hear about.

Please fill out the form below to vote – we’re asking for your email just to ensure that people don’t vote twice, and your location so that we can see what opinions are like around the world – and feel free to use the comments section as well to defend your choice. We’d love to hear your stories about the orchestra you care about the most, and why they mean so much to you.

Voting closed at midnight on Monday 7th October.

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Bachtrack

155 comments

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[Anonymous], Tuesday 08 October 2013 03:58

From Disqus user BORWONPONG SUPASOPON

Staatskapelle Berlin With long collaboration to Daniel Barenboim. The Orchestra with no musicians from far-east,I attended its concert in Philharmonie Berlin with Bruckner No.7,it's the great experience. Barenboim distilled the 2nd theme of the 2nd Movement as if it were the sunshine penetrate through the hall and also in our heart.The last movement at the peak of development section(FFF Dynamic!) it's like the world and the time stop going on.Challenging even those of the legendary Sergiu Celibidache!!! No commercial matter concern in this Orchestra I think.

[Anonymous], Tuesday 08 October 2013 02:24

From Disqus user Lydia Breer

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra!

[Anonymous], Tuesday 08 October 2013 00:19

From Disqus user 1739camilli

Not a big ego - just a long professional career in major symphony, opera and recording studio work. Wearing headphones in a recording studio and listening to playbacks teaches one many things. BTW, I have more than a decent ear. LIstening to Philly or Amsterdam is akin to Japanese mustard cleaning out one's sinuses.

[Anonymous], Tuesday 08 October 2013 00:03

From Disqus user MariaD

Philadelphia Orchestra

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 23:59

From Disqus user String-ki-p0o

This is clearly not a poll that reflects the taste of concert-goers, but rather an ad hoc smash up for fun. If some of the best orchestras in the world don't even appear on the list then I don't buy it, and this entire project is BOGUS. Sorry. If some part-time regional orchestra, or alternative funky string band with electric hookups (hookahs) has great programming, or effective outreach to teens and tweens, that's lovely and cool, and of course important and commendable. And they might have done a vast emailing of their fan base to entice people to vote for them. But even getting all those fans' votes doesn't put them in league with the greatest orchestras in the world, who also do educational outreach, audience building, and creative programming in their way. Every orchestra is working hard to build bridges with public and youth nowadays, and even pander a bit to wider audience taste in order to entice audience into the concert hall, with the economic hard times.

Hope this has provided some fun, all this public endorsing of favorite bands and voting online, but we mustn't get too bent out of shape. It's easy to see the obvious weakness of a poll of this sort.

Well then, shall we start another poll, and put forward the names of all the truly and verifiably great orchestras out there? To compare them, ought we not hear side by side samples of the same piece as played by each orchestra? You can see it's very difficult, as conductors can make all the difference, too. So how about all playing under the same conductor? It's obviously ridiculous and terribly unscientific. Ah fuggeddaboutit.

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 23:55

From Disqus user philaorch

philadelphia orch

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 22:23

From Disqus user Maestro

That is an acceptable explanation and more balanced. As far as your comment about nitpicking on a level not heard by most concertgoers, that would apply to ANY trained musician with a decent ear. But...it is also an assumption and an insult. YOU do NOT know most concertgoers, and your statement shows you have a big ego...

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 22:19

From Disqus user Maestro

Milt: You are correct. Dudamel is NOT in the same class as Furtwangler, Karajan, Abbado, etc. He will never be in taht league for years to come--he is still young and developing. Personally, I do NOT believe that he will ever be in their class, and that includes other greats, such as Haitink, Jansons, Gardner, Chailly, Sir Colin Davis, etc. However, time will tell...

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 21:57

From Disqus user Julie

Am I the only person who voted for the Halle' ?

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 21:05

From Disqus user mikey4848

Philly O! Word!

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 20:46

From Disqus user 1739camilli

I haven't said that Philly is better than Amsterdam - only that I prize them equally for their intonation and ensemble blend though each is different. As I posted elsewhere, my nitpicking is on a level not heard by most concertgoers,

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 20:42

From Disqus user 1739camilli

Having already stated that 1. I'm a retired professional musician and 2. I live in NYC and DO hear all these orchestras, I don't understand your question. For my ears, the BPO - good as it is - does not have the intonation and ensemble BLEND of Philly and Amsterdam. This is nitpicking on a level not heard by most concertgoers. However, I do enjoy the BPO, Vienna, Chicago, Cleveland, etc. BTW, marketing of the various orchestras doesn't impress me.

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 19:05

From Disqus user Jing

Are you kidding me???Philadelphia Orchestra is NOT ON THE LIST????!!!!!

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 18:38

From Disqus user Fiona White

I may be biased, but this orchestra are just superb. Each one a huge talent. Their recent show at Cork Opera House had people dancing in the aisles and absolutely raving for weeks.

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 18:06

From Disqus user Sancar Seckiner

Berliner Philharmoniker

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 17:56

From Disqus user Jane

The Cleveland Orchestra: They're great, they are know world-wide, and Cleveland needs a winning team of some sort!

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 17:10

From Disqus user Jwinder

i would have to ask this question: Have you actually gone and heard all of these orchestras in live concerts? If not, you cannot have a truly unbiased opinion. These polls are really very silly and skewed. BTW, I have heard almost all of these orchestras live, many of them upwards of a dozen to hundreds of times, and the only one that stands out consistently in that context is the Berlin Philharmonic. However, many of the other orchestras have risen to the same level at times.....

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 17:01

From Disqus user Wuilly Arteaga

London Symphony Orchestra!!

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 16:19

From Disqus user Michael Harrison

My tops will always be LSO, Berlin, Chicago, National Symphony, and St. Louis. In no particular order. Among those it really depends on the piece being played who comes out on top for me.

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 15:47

From Disqus user Lily lien

NSO Taiwan is the best orchestra!

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 15:42

From Disqus user Lydia

Detroit Symphony Orchestra playing in Orchestra Hall is the most perfect thing in the entire universe.

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 15:17

From Disqus user Ivan Pelayo

.Yeah!! genius you are going to make millions with your original ideas... I am talking about the social and anthropological reach, about the laziness and ignorance from a lot a people as you probed with your comment "Google translate". English is not my native language and I can express myself, I speak ,4 languages more, IDK YOU??? but google translate is no enough, and if that is your criteria to chose an orchestra is like to say "MIDI sounds are much better that a real professional orchestra" (if you know what MIDI, in this google it -_-) Ok, this is my point: have you read all the comments in the contests?, the problem I am exposing is this: it´s a WORLD CONTEST in English, really.... why is not translated to all world languages or at least more important languages in the world??? it must be called "The English speakers favorite orchestra" because that´s what it is..

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 11:40

From Disqus user jarofjam

What is this??? Where is the BSO??

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 11:37

From Disqus user a kiernan

rte concert orchestra great sound great people

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 09:33

From Disqus user Sienalba

"West-Eastern Divan Orchestra is to promote understanding between
Israelis and Palestinians and pave the way for a peaceful and fair
solution of the Arab-Israeli conflict".

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 09:28

From Disqus user Sienalba

West-Eastern Divan Orchestra

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 09:11

From Disqus user Michael Casey

The sheer versatility of the RTE Concert Orchestra has to be heard to be believed. Anything from swing to authentic Baroque music is second nature to the musicians' varied talents.

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 09:08

From Disqus user ilivewithmymom

I'm a proffesinal triangle player.I've perfected the triangle after many many years of dedication.I play in the South Carlow Backstreet Orchestra (if you want to call us that) I've played many important,elegant,sophistacated peaces like "Mary had a little lamb" and "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star"

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 08:56

From Disqus user Mia Foley

RTE Orchestra
I love listening to this orchestra
its Irish and awesome

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 08:55

From Disqus user Helen

RTE RTE RTE RTE RTE RTE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 08:55

From Disqus user aoise

RTE concert orchestra is a great orchestra

[Anonymous], Monday 07 October 2013 00:08

From Disqus user Stephan Westphal

Beethoven-Orchester Bonn, Germany

[Anonymous], Sunday 06 October 2013 19:10

From Disqus user Andrew

I know this doesn't represent who is the best Orchestra but Cleveland over Chicago? Why isn't New York Phill. there?I think it should be Berlin,London,Chicago, and then Cleveland. Of-course Its a poll and this is my opinion.I respect everyone else's opinion.

[Anonymous], Sunday 06 October 2013 17:16

From Disqus user Will

Berlin...Vienna...Royal Concertgebouw are consistently named the top 3 in the world (not necessarily in that order).

[Anonymous], Sunday 06 October 2013 16:39

From Disqus user Umberto

This poll is a bit like general opinions about the Affordable Care Act. Little knowledge, but strong opinions.

[Anonymous], Sunday 06 October 2013 16:36

From Disqus user Gonzalo

I think these two would have to appear as well :Tokyo Kosei Wind Orchestra, and Orquesta y coro de la Rtve.

[Anonymous], Sunday 06 October 2013 16:30

From Disqus user Ирина Примакова

Of course, Russian. I guess people voting here, never heard it.

[Anonymous], Sunday 06 October 2013 13:48

From Disqus user Mairead Kavanagh

The RTE Concert Orchestra - small country, limited funds - and getting even more limited - Big Orchestra!!

[Anonymous], Sunday 06 October 2013 12:47

From Disqus user Hank Drake

Chicago has great brass, Philadelphia great strings, Vienna remarkable transparency: But the Cleveland Orchestra has the most effective mix of all these qualities. Add to that the mastery of a diverse repertoire, an engaged and youthful audience, sold out concerts, engagement with the community - and they play well no matter who's on the podium.

[Anonymous], Sunday 06 October 2013 11:09

From Disqus user Tamara

Russian National Orchestra is the best!

[Anonymous], Saturday 05 October 2013 21:01

From Disqus user Musicklover

Dark Horse and a superb orchestra....St. Louis Symphony! Great European tour last summer.

[Anonymous], Saturday 05 October 2013 17:54

From Disqus user Unflappable Stage Manager

The Oregon Symphony, in Portland has been around for 118 years. We currently have a conductor and artistic director of international acclaim (Carlos Kalmar) whose innovative programming pairs standard orchestral fare with uncommon gems from all times. Oregon Symphony also plays alongside popular and up and coming local bands. A Gospel Christmas raises the roof and brings the house down every year, this will be 15. Aside from exceptional program material, the world class players have been founding members of many notable ensembles including Third Angle, and 45th Parallel. They also have one of the most dedicated and attentive Stage Crews keeping the music machine running in top form, and on time. Look for the landmark Portland sign at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall.. Or one of the Grammy Nominated recordings, namely Music for a Time of War.

[Anonymous], Saturday 05 October 2013 17:36

From Disqus user Brent

Google translate

[Anonymous], Saturday 05 October 2013 07:25

From Disqus user Dan Seymour

For forty-two years my home was in Orchestra Hall (Symphony Center) in Chicago. After I moved away last year, the Berliner Philharmoniker has been coming to my home via the Digital Concert Hall. But as my friends know, my true home is in Leipzig.

[Anonymous], Saturday 05 October 2013 04:04

From Disqus user John Hoge

Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, nuff said.

[Anonymous], Saturday 05 October 2013 00:42

From Disqus user golytrumpet

New York Philharmonic Orchestra

[Anonymous], Friday 04 October 2013 23:59

From Disqus user Marilyn Flynn

My heart is breaking. I go back to Dimitri Metropolis's time when the then Minneapolis Symphony visited Winnipeg every year. Unknown to me my husband-to-be was listening to them at the University of Minnesota at the same time. The current group is on the cusp of world renown. What a disaster.

[Anonymous], Friday 04 October 2013 23:39

From Disqus user Eloina Zayas-Bazan

The Cleveland has a very special touch: sound, unity, art. Is a heavenly pleasure hear and watch them.

[Anonymous], Friday 04 October 2013 21:00

From Disqus user Terri

Laredo Phil, Laredo Texas USA

[Anonymous], Friday 04 October 2013 14:40

From Disqus user Peter

I'm shocked the Chicago Symphony Orchestra is not in top 3.

[Anonymous], Friday 04 October 2013 14:21

From Disqus user Name

That's 'nonsense', not 'non sense.' BTW, take a basic course in English. Your grammar is appalling. Abbreviated rubbish...

[Anonymous], Friday 04 October 2013 13:27

From Disqus user David McKenna

The RTÉ Concert Orchestra can play anything with vivacity and conviction, from Mozart to Broadway musicals, with top Irish and international artists such as Sir James Galway, Maria Ewing and Lalo Schiffrin.

[Anonymous], Friday 04 October 2013 13:05

From Disqus user lvdkeyes

I can't believe the Chicago Symphony Orchestra is not listed.

[Anonymous], Friday 04 October 2013 12:05

From Disqus user Hugh Davies

Voted!

[Anonymous], Friday 04 October 2013 10:39

From Disqus user Joanna Patton

That's how it is. So take the results with a large pinch of salt. :)

[Anonymous], Friday 04 October 2013 10:29

From Disqus user Joanna Patton

Members of the Ulster Orchestra permeate our society here in Northern Ireland, teaching, playing in ensembles, filling gaps in our amateur performances, adding richness and quality to our musical lives. They are an absolutely essential part of our culture here, and we are lucky to have them.

[Anonymous], Friday 04 October 2013 05:03

From Disqus user Nimo

Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra

[Anonymous], Friday 04 October 2013 01:24

From Disqus user jghjk2

it IS!

[Anonymous], Friday 04 October 2013 01:19

From Disqus user Milt

It's Dudamel and he's not even remotely in the same class with Furtwangler, Karajan, or Abbado

[Anonymous], Thursday 03 October 2013 21:34

From Disqus user Proudohioan

Even critics in Austria and Berlin have lauded the great Cleveland Orchestra and at one time stated that Cleveland was the best American Orchestra and quite possibly the world. Those who play in the great Orchestras know that Cleveland is definitely one of the world's best Orchestras.

[Anonymous], Thursday 03 October 2013 20:38

From Disqus user packer

Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra has been my favourite orchestra for many years. Love their sound which is quite unique. Their woodwind section is the best in the world IMO.

[Anonymous], Thursday 03 October 2013 19:25

From Disqus user cherylhathaway

As a student at WRU in the 60's, I had the tremendous pleasure of living in a dorm a few blocks from the Cleveland Orchestra's home, and we never wasted a chance to stroll through University Circle to enjoy their performances.

[Anonymous], Thursday 03 October 2013 18:06

From Disqus user androphiles

Should be #1!

[Anonymous], Thursday 03 October 2013 15:25

From Disqus user Fred Clark

The "Cleveland Sound" is no myth. The sonic virtuosity of this symphony orchestra and their unique ability to perform as a single instrument make Cleveland "the best damned band in the land."

[Anonymous], Thursday 03 October 2013 14:50

From Disqus user Gene

Nonsense.

[Anonymous], Thursday 03 October 2013 13:19

From Disqus user Ann Edwards

The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra is a jewel Western New York's crown!

[Anonymous], Thursday 03 October 2013 10:09

From Disqus user Stev

Thanks! Kind regards, Stev (Gewandhaus Online Manager)

[Anonymous], Thursday 03 October 2013 10:08

From Disqus user Stev

Thanks! Best, Stev (Gewandhaus Online Manager)

[Anonymous], Thursday 03 October 2013 09:31

From Disqus user David Norris

The vote is for your favourite, Not necessarily the 'best' (whatever that means). So the OAE clearly gets my vote

[Anonymous], Thursday 03 October 2013 04:00

From Disqus user Lucien Audrex

being this a thread of favourite and not the best, that explains the Detroit orchestra being here, instead of some other USA orchestras that may be better, if the best were the subject. By the way what is the point of being a retired profesional musician and having played here and there to overcome anyone else opinion? That said, for my personal experience so far, european orchestras, even young orchestras, seem to have a sound from the inside, like a chorus, like voices, not so the USA orchestras, that exceed in tecnical proficiency but sometimes lack depth. And living in latin america and knowing how difficult can be the experience in a pro orchestra, I must say that my favourite in that context is the Simon Bolivar Orchestra of Venezuela, and really the entire El Sistema. But really, Berliner Philharmoniker and Concertgebouw are in a totally diferent level than any USa orchestra today, and so will remain.

[Anonymous], Thursday 03 October 2013 03:38

From Disqus user Guest

Boston Symphony orchestra, clearly. it is a matter of subjectivity and preference in accordance with origin and experience. I am from Boston. I was also affiliated with the New York Metropolitan Opera Orchestra. The world is full of superlative ensembles. It depends on who, when, and where the polling takes place. Boston is this native's choice.......Maestrosonata@gmail.com and please see my Facebook Page: The "Maestro Sonata"

[Anonymous], Thursday 03 October 2013 01:31

From Disqus user Shawn Hampton

"Video Game Orchestra" - oh yes, the VGO. They're fab! One of the best, and their famous conductor Xbox von Pokemon. WTF???

[Anonymous], Thursday 03 October 2013 01:22

From Disqus user Shawn Hampton

Would that they had a hall that sounded really great like Dallas or Vienna. Orchestra Hall is so dull and flat sounding.

[Anonymous], Thursday 03 October 2013 01:20

From Disqus user Shawn Hampton

BPO uses natural skin tympani, as do all the best orchestras. VPO is my favorite too, though - with BPO and Concertgebouw next.

[Anonymous], Wednesday 02 October 2013 23:56

From Disqus user Shawn Hampton

Vienna NOT ON THE LIST???? Insane!!!!!

[Anonymous], Wednesday 02 October 2013 17:53

From Disqus user Peter C

Buffalo Phiharmonic Orchestra - my hometown heros

[Anonymous], Wednesday 02 October 2013 17:33

From Disqus user Rod Corkin

Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment

[Anonymous], Wednesday 02 October 2013 16:58

From Disqus user David Norris

Very tempted to enter the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain

[Anonymous], Wednesday 02 October 2013 16:49

From Disqus user Eelke Halbertsma

What happened tot the Wieners?

[Anonymous], Wednesday 02 October 2013 16:31

From Disqus user EUSSR_LibLabCon_traitor

Pretty keen on the Academy of Ancient Music and Il Giardino Armonico.

[Anonymous], Wednesday 02 October 2013 16:28

From Disqus user Rudi Affolter

The London Symphony Orchestra are tops with me. No other orchestra has such a wide repertoire nor plays with such energy and fervour.

[Anonymous], Wednesday 02 October 2013 14:39

From Disqus user Maestro

I am also a musician, and YES, I am using my ears. I am well aware that rankings by major publications are skewed toward European orchestras, and I for one do NOT base my view on what is published. What I said--to reiterate my previous comment--was that Berlin, Vienna, the Concertgebouw and the London Symphony always seem to be included in the top 5 of any ranking. I did NOT say that it was right, or imply such. However, I do NOT believe that Philadelphia is better than the Concertgebouw, and I base that on what I have heard and NOT what I have read. There is no doubt that Philadelphia have been and continues to be one of the foremost US orchestras.

[Anonymous], Wednesday 02 October 2013 13:17

From Disqus user Phillyphan

The Philadelphia Orchestra has survived bankruptcy, and it sounds wonderful with its new conductor, Yannick Nézet-Séguin, and the improved acoustics in Verizon Hall.

[Anonymous], Tuesday 01 October 2013 06:04

From Disqus user Daniela Ometti

LaVerdi Orchestra of Milan, Italy, is my favorite not only because I'm italian and I live in Milan but also because it's a very important orchestra and needs support after the cuts to the culture of the last Berlusconi's government. Now we hope and trust in the Enrico Letta's government that is working for to give more money to the orchestras in Italy.
Daniela Ometti, Milan, Italy

[Anonymous], Tuesday 01 October 2013 03:40

From Disqus user Mag_da_lena

Chamber Orchestra of Europe

[Anonymous], Monday 30 September 2013 15:13

From Disqus user 1739camilli

Are you actually using your ears, or just reiterating stuff you've read? As a retired NYC professional musician who once played in the Phil before doing recording studio work for many years, I stand by my former statement. I attend more than 80 concerts in NY each season, hearing all the above-mentioned orchestras. I suggest you stop reading orchestra rankings in publications and start using your ears. Are you capable of hearing intonation, ensemble blend, tone quality, etc.?

[Anonymous], Monday 30 September 2013 14:48

From Disqus user Maestro

The Philadelphia Orcestra is one of the BIG Five US orchestras. HOWEVER, Philadelphia is NOT the Concertgebouw or even close. That being said, it is a much better ensemble than Detroit, which is currently in the top 10. When orchestras are ranked on an international basis, the top 5 always seem to include Berlin, Vienna, the Concertgebouw, and London Symphony, and NOT in any particular order. Sad, but true,,,

[Anonymous], Monday 30 September 2013 14:14

From Disqus user Víctor

Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra :)

[Anonymous], Monday 30 September 2013 11:28

From Disqus user W. A. Milligan

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra...

[Anonymous], Sunday 29 September 2013 15:21

From Disqus user 1739camilli

I posted this on another reply:

At the time the Gramophone article was written, Philadelphia had just canceled a European Tour and was in the middle of conductor changes. Most of those on the Gramophone judging panel are Europeans. It was outrageous to me that Philly wasn't even in the top ten. Judging on ensemble sound alone without the other trappings, Philadelphia ranks alongside the Concertgebouw to my ears - I'm a retired professional musician.

[Anonymous], Sunday 29 September 2013 15:19

From Disqus user 1739camilli

At the time the Gramophone article was written, Philadelphia had just canceled a European Tour and was in the middle of conductor changes. Most of those on the Gramophone judging panel are Europeans. It was outrageous to me that Philly wasn't even in the top ten. Judging on ensemble sound alone without the other trappings, Philadelphia ranks alongside the Concertgebouw to my ears - I'm a retired professional musician.

[Anonymous], Sunday 29 September 2013 15:13

From Disqus user 1739camilli

Let me add Philadelphia Orchestra to Concertgebouw.

[Anonymous], Sunday 29 September 2013 06:46

From Disqus user Derinöz

An evaluation upon the performance quality of an orchestra may worth to be listened if it is towards to a performance period under a specific maestro. For example Berlin with Furtwangler / Karajan / Abbado or Vienna with Kleiber etc.

[Anonymous], Sunday 29 September 2013 02:48

From Disqus user Auntie M'ellen

Maybe if enough Minnesota Orchestra fans vote, we'll get our beloved orchestra and conductor back!

[Anonymous], Sunday 29 September 2013 02:24

From Disqus user Ken McGuire

Up from the ashes - it looked like the DSO was headed for the bottom of the pile, but the people of the Detroit area and Leonard Slatkin have done wonders with this world class symphony in many ways, but especially with the music.

[Anonymous], Friday 27 September 2013 23:30

From Disqus user Klaus

the SWF Baden-baden orchestra has the tightest string section, unmatchable. Their recording of Le Sacre with Horenstein is breathtaking.

[Anonymous], Friday 27 September 2013 17:53

From Disqus user Sally Denkers

London Symphony Orchestra is tops, in my opinion, but also the Mariinsky Theatre Orchestra. I believe Mariinsky is a close contender and has become first rate under Maestro Gergiev.

[Anonymous], Friday 27 September 2013 16:02

From Disqus user Maestro

The three top orchestras are the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra,
the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.
In an article in Gramophone Magazine, the Royal Concertgebouw was
ranked #1. That being said, ANY of these top three could be considered
#1--ALL of them are great, all of them have great traditions, all of
them have a legacy of distinguished music directors or chief conductors,
and all of them reach worldwide international audiences.

[Anonymous], Friday 27 September 2013 14:42

From Disqus user Geigenmarie

I love the Gewandhaus Leipzig. To hear them perform together with their Maestro Riccardo Chailly is PARADISE!!!

[Anonymous], Friday 27 September 2013 14:09

From Disqus user Taijin Matsunami

I vote to VIenna Philharmonic, but why not any Russians, French or Italians? Radio related ones like BBC, Northern Germany are also good.

[Anonymous], Friday 27 September 2013 13:49

From Disqus user Susan Schwartz

If you haven't heard the Buffalo Philharmonic, you are really missing something. Lots of recording on NAXOS help tell our story. We are very proud to be on this list!

[Anonymous], Friday 27 September 2013 13:41

From Disqus user Gabriele

Filarmonica della Scala!

[Anonymous], Wednesday 25 September 2013 11:27

From Disqus user mahlerhero

So many great orchestras to choose from but as a born-and-bred Londoner I've also loved the LSO; so they get my vote.

[Anonymous], Tuesday 24 September 2013 16:14

From Disqus user bassbonesjones

The question is clearly "who is your FAVORITE?" (e.g. to which orchestra do you have the strongest connection?) not "who is THE BEST?" (e.g. which orchestra plays at the highest level?) The difference between these two questions is interesting, and my answer to each is different.

[Anonymous], Monday 23 September 2013 16:21

From Disqus user TCO fan

I believe that the "operative" word here is FAVORITE. The word favorite does not carry analysis or logic with it, just feelings of favorite. Oh yes, please capitalize Cleveland and spell Detroit properly and get more people in Vienna to vote!

[Anonymous], Sunday 22 September 2013 11:55

From Disqus user Luca

Gewandhaus di Lipsia, Nona di Mahler ascoltata l'8 settembre 2013: auditorium spettacolare, acustica perfetta, orchestra sublime, suoni preziosi, trionfali, commoventi... Commozione e partecipazione assoluta di un pubblico di tutte le età (e quanti bambini!) "rapito" da tanta magnificenza certo non facile da ascoltare... Auguro a tutti di poter avere almeno una volta nella vita tante e tali emozioni in un ora e mezza...

[Anonymous], Sunday 22 September 2013 10:00

From Disqus user mahler24

What about the munich orchestra with mariss janssons??

[Anonymous], Saturday 21 September 2013 19:50

From Disqus user fraisesetchocolat

Love all of the orchestras mentioned. Vancouver is my home and the VSO gets my vote. It's come back from the brink and keeps getting better and better. If I can't make it to the Orpheum, I have my pick of many other venues. Here are just some of the highlights: 2008 Grammy and Juno Awards – 2008 Tour of Asia (Korea, Macau, China) –2009 Tour of Central Canada, - 2011 opening of the VSO School of Music – 2013 U.S. West Coast Tour.

[Anonymous], Saturday 21 September 2013 11:14

From Disqus user WonBall

Two Nazis do not a fine history make.

[Anonymous], Saturday 21 September 2013 11:13

From Disqus user WonBall

The Chicago Symphony has a very odd sound, with an excess of brass and very reluctant woodwinds, at least when playing at Carnegie.

[Anonymous], Saturday 21 September 2013 11:11

From Disqus user WonBall

No, but he picked a fine avatar.

[Anonymous], Saturday 21 September 2013 11:11

From Disqus user WonBall

I love to hear the visiting orchestras at Carnegie. Berlin, Cleveland, Vienna are the three finest in the last 5 years or so. Add Boston and the Met Opera Orchestra and take your pick.

[Anonymous], Saturday 21 September 2013 10:34

From Disqus user Stev

Thanks, Keith! Best, Stev (Gewandhaus Online Manager)

[Anonymous], Saturday 21 September 2013 07:33

From Disqus user Jakob Lange

Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin rocks.... ;)

RSB fan

[Anonymous], Friday 20 September 2013 19:06

From Disqus user Owain

Hi @Cagiostro the Berlin Phil do not use artificial timp heads they never have done. They use calf heads on Ringer timpani. The Vienna use goat timpani heads on schnellar drums. They are two very different schools of playing and stick choice which have evolved over the last hundred years. I would not say the timpani in Berlin sound flat in any way

[Anonymous], Friday 20 September 2013 18:10

From Disqus user TCO fan

Obviously you are not acquainted with many orchestras. I can only laugh at you for your lack of information!

[Anonymous], Friday 20 September 2013 15:20

From Disqus user esi

Not true. Berlin use calf skin on their timps. Vienna use goat. Both natural skins. Youre entitled to your opinion, no need to spread false information on subjects you ovbiously have lacking knowledge of.

[Anonymous], Friday 20 September 2013 13:54

From Disqus user jghjk

Why on earth is the royal concertgebow not in the top 10?

[Anonymous], Friday 20 September 2013 11:38

From Disqus user Angie Swanson

city of birmingham symphony orchestra,clearly,because i,m in it and it,s fantastic!!!!it was good enough for rattle,oramo and now the superb nelsons!!if you haven,t yet heard us...listen...you owe it to yourselves!!!

[Anonymous], Friday 20 September 2013 10:59

From Disqus user Nick

REMEMBER:
How you judge it is up to you – maybe it’s the one you think is the best technically, or the one whose sound you love the most. Maybe it’s the one you’ve been going to hear for the longest time, or the one who plays on the most of your favourite CDs. Maybe there’s an orchestra whose programming makes them stand out as particularly important to you, or one whose conductor makes the biggest impression. Whichever orchestra’s playing has touched you the most – that’s the one we want to hear about.

For me, Cincinnati Symphony.

To choose best technically, musically, ensemble, conductor, etc:
Berlin,
Concertgebauw,
Boston

But none will be as close to my heart as the Cincinnati Symphony.

[Anonymous], Friday 20 September 2013 04:00

From Disqus user TCO fan

The Cleveland Orchestra has the best overall sound and balance of any orchestra today. This especially true when they are playing in their home, Severance Hall.

[Anonymous], Thursday 19 September 2013 22:31

From Disqus user Carlos Kleiber

this is nonsense!!!!!!!!! 2. cleveland 3 Detroirt??!! Dont make me laugh

[Anonymous], Thursday 19 September 2013 11:58

From Disqus user Dolpff

My vote went to the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra. Not only voted by leading journalists to be the best but also when going to their live concerts you know why. Passion, great musicians and great conductors make the RCO the Orchestra of natural choice.

[Anonymous], Wednesday 18 September 2013 20:31

From Disqus user Horst

Sorry to say, but this is a stupid question! How can you judge art? What is the best painting, who is the best actor, what is the best poem a.s.o....It´s a matter of personal taste, so the question should be: Which orchestra do you like most?

[Anonymous], Wednesday 18 September 2013 15:12

From Disqus user Cagliostro

They have way more serious programs the rest of the year and let's not forget the work they do for the Vienna State Opera! Who want's to start a year with a heavy and serious concert especially after a night of heavy celebrating?! ;) And I think one can observer how they try to mix it up like they did this year when they played pieces of Wagner and Verdi as a tribute for their anniversaries.

But mainly I think their sound speaks for themselves it is for me unreachable. Especialley by the Berlin Philharmonic with their artificial timpani skins which sound way too flat in my opinion compaired to the real skins used by the VPO.

[Anonymous], Wednesday 18 September 2013 13:34

From Disqus user Natalia Solovyova

Difficult to say who is best, but this is a vote for favorite. Many amazing orchestras everywhere on the globe. But the Detroit Symphony it may be said is on the front lines of bringing classical music to everyone. For that reason I vote for DSO.

[Anonymous], Wednesday 18 September 2013 05:51

From Disqus user Jeroen - Netherlands

For me defenitely the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra. They have a special, extraordinary soundquality created in the last 100 years. I believe that the orchestrasound is built on the softest instruments (i.e. the strings): in stead of most other orchestras where it is built on the intruments which can produce more decibels. In the Berliner the woodwinds/brass/percussion always listen with their intelligent ears and mingle/blend their sound into the strings. An crescendo starts in the strings..in all other orchestras i think I hear the crescendo beginning in the instruments who are capable of making more decibels and at the end the overshadow the strings. And the other thing (which is in a way due to the same musical intelligence in the Berliner: their is always so much attention for a collective rythmical pulse on which the members of the orchestra can built and find ways to breath collectively and make 'agogic' changes/ phrasings more then i hear in other ochestras. It is as if you hear a small (flexible) chamber ochestra/ string quartet in that way.
And I think that their way of playing (always listening to / trying to hear eachother as if they are chamber music musicians) iand therefor generally play softer then other ochestras. That gives them the oppertunity to have a greater palet of possibilities dynamically and generally are capable to create an orchestral 'forte' which is (generally speaking and IMHO) better balanced (not one instrumental group overshadowing another) and of a bettter tone-quality (never harsh).
You feel that strong (tone and pulse) quality always when listening / watching the Berliner and you really see all the players having 'Big Ears" and in a very intelligent way listening to eachother. When someone has a solo, the soloist doesnt have to play louder (as in many other orchestras), but all other players automatically play softer so that you hear the solo-player.
Top years of the Berliner IMHO: the Karajan and Abbado era.

Jeroen, The Netherlands
shbosch@hotmail.com

[Anonymous], Wednesday 18 September 2013 03:58

From Disqus user Guest

Black Hills Symphony Orchestra - the best 4th horn player in South Dakota - ME!

[Anonymous], Wednesday 18 September 2013 03:50

From Disqus user Maestro

Mike: The three top orchestras are the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. In an article in Gramophone Magazine, the Royal Concertgebouw was ranked #1. That being said, ANY of these top three could be considered #1--ALL of them are great, all of them have great traditions, all of them have a legacy of distinguished music directors or chief conductors, and all of them reach worldwide international audiences.

[Anonymous], Wednesday 18 September 2013 03:45

From Disqus user Andy

I think the Chicago Symphony's ability to play with a supreme blend of powerful, yet sensual, sound ultimately lets them play anything beautifully.

[Anonymous], Tuesday 17 September 2013 21:33

From Disqus user music lover

So many good ones but my heart belongs to Buffalo.

[Anonymous], Tuesday 17 September 2013 21:15

From Disqus user mike getzinj

If only they had more serious programs than New Years Day Strauss Walzes and Polkas....They are great, but Berlin...

[Anonymous], Tuesday 17 September 2013 20:03

From Disqus user Alexander

People are clearly voting non sense, so far no one talks about Concertgebouw, Berlin Phil, Simon Bolivar Orchestra of Venezuela. Best orchestras in North America? I am an American, professional musician but come on you guys...

[Anonymous], Tuesday 17 September 2013 19:46

From Disqus user Pianna

LSO! London Symphony Orchestra are the Best! British musas are really good, most of them.

[Anonymous], Tuesday 17 September 2013 18:49

From Disqus user Maestro

Great orchestras include the Berlin Philharmonic, Vienna Philharmonic, London Symphony, New York Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, Montreal Symphony and the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra to name a few. However, the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra is considered by many to be the best in the world, and it is a musical gem.

[Anonymous], Tuesday 17 September 2013 18:46

From Disqus user Ferenc Géczi, Budapest

My choice is Budapest Festival Orchestra. Hungary is small poor country, but these musicians with huge efforts brought the BFO up to the best orchestras of the world.

[Anonymous], Tuesday 17 September 2013 18:35

From Disqus user Mike Getzin

The Berlin Phil is the most powerful and energetic playing orchestra going now. The have the best conductors and the most proactive agendas especially the digital concert hall. They set am standard to be matched by any other orchestra going now. Their history is most interesting having some of the best figures involved with them including Furtwangler, Karajan, Abbado, Rattle, Haitink, and now Dudemal.

[Anonymous], Tuesday 17 September 2013 18:25

From Disqus user Cagliostro

The Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra of course I mean what other orchestra can reach over 45 Million viewers in one comcert worldwide? Only the VPO can with their annual new years concert!

[Anonymous], Tuesday 17 September 2013 18:08

From Disqus user uwewe

The Südwestfälische Philharmonie in Germany is my favorite.

[Anonymous], Tuesday 17 September 2013 17:58

From Disqus user Lesa

Buffalo NY Orchastra is Beautiful!!

[Anonymous], Tuesday 17 September 2013 17:52

From Disqus user Keith Parry

My two favourites have always been the London Symphony Orchestra and the Berliner Philharmoniker. However, recently I have been going to see the Gewandhausorchester, Leipzig and they are simply wonderful. What makes them so wonderful is the relationship between the orchestra and Riccardo Chailly, which is so evident on stage, so they are my new favourites!

[Anonymous], Tuesday 17 September 2013 17:36

From Disqus user Hans

Concertgebouw Orchestra. Long history and tradition, finest musicians, global tours, constant supreme quality.

[Anonymous], Tuesday 17 September 2013 17:34

From Disqus user Thomas Darscheid

SWR Sinfonieorchester Baden-Baden und Freiburg. Never before has such a great Orchestra been liquidated by commercial interests. We all grieve.

[Anonymous], Tuesday 17 September 2013 17:28

From Disqus user Linda McTaggart

The Vienna Philharmonic is my favourite Orchestra with the Berlin Philharmonic a close second, both magnificent orchestras in my opinion!

[Anonymous], Tuesday 17 September 2013 17:26

From Disqus user Ivan Pelayo

You know that this web site is in English obviously and not all people in the world speaks and read English. All the comments are in English almost all from people from the North America, this is not going to be a fair votation, there are people that speak Spanish, French, Bulgarian, German, Dutch, Russian, etc, etc, etc, and they are not able to understand what is this about, that´s the reason in the graphic North America is winning, not because they will have the best orchestras -_-

[Anonymous], Tuesday 17 September 2013 17:24

From Disqus user Guytano Parks

The Cleveland Orchestra!

[Anonymous], Tuesday 17 September 2013 17:23

From Disqus user Xavier

SÌMON BOLÌVAR!!

[Anonymous], Tuesday 17 September 2013 17:16

From Disqus user CSO fan

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is the best in the USA and has a legendary music director, Riccardo Muti. They've played to critical acclaim all across the world and consistently attracts the best musicians. Historically, their brass section is famous, but now all the sections sound divine. They have the most Grammy's of ANY orchestra!

[Anonymous], Monday 16 September 2013 17:04

From Disqus user Analita Mulligan

I voted for them, because I´ve heard them play some great pieces, in addition to their outstanding classical works. For example, their rendition of ¨Born Again¨ with Billy Preston is modern and extremely beautiful (and that composition is rooted in R&B, Pop and Jazz). Basically, their movements to and from different compositions from different periods are seamless.

[Anonymous], Wednesday 11 September 2013 17:34

From Disqus user Guest

Love the Berlin, New York Phil, Cleveland and Chicago orchestras but Detroit is my home and they get my vote.

[Anonymous], Wednesday 11 September 2013 12:54

From Disqus user quaecumque sunt vera

The Minnesota Orchestra has been locked out by their management for 11 months. They're a great orchestra. No orchestra, anywhere, any time, deserves to be treated with such utter contempt by their own management!

[Anonymous], Wednesday 11 September 2013 00:37

From Disqus user Pam Oleson

Cleveland Orchestra

[Anonymous], Saturday 07 September 2013 03:33

From Disqus user Gloria Kimbwala

My 4 year old son has really enjoyed the San Diego Symphony's Kinder Music for 2 years. He wants to be a conductor so any environment that lets him express his love for classical music is always enjoyed. My personal favorite is Heritage Orchestra. they are always innovative and I am expecting a great response to their Live Transmission: Joy Division Reworked tour. Wish I lived in the UK to catch a glimpse of it.

[Anonymous], Friday 06 September 2013 14:58

From Disqus user jujekphoenix

I picked New Japan Philharmonic World Dream Orchestra for their wonderful performance at the 25th Anniversary Studio Ghibli Concert and for their soundtrack albums of The Legend Korean drama, simply enchanting!

[Anonymous], Friday 06 September 2013 13:08

From Disqus user Paul Kilbey

My vote's gone to the Staatskapelle Berlin following their spectacular Ring at the Proms.

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