Founded in 1988 with Lev Markiz as its first artistic director, the Amsterdam Sinfonietta has performed in some of the world’s most prestigious concert halls, including the Barbican Hall in London, the Cité de la Musique in Paris, the National Centre for the Performing Arts in Beijing, the Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires, and the Konzerthaus in Vienna. It has collaborated with internationally renowned musicians such as David Fray, Janine Jansen, Dejan Lazić, Steven Isserlis, and Alexander Melnikov.
The ensemble consists of 22 string players who perform under the leadership of their concertmaster and artistic director, Candida Thompson. This conductor-less approach to music-making is what sets the group apart from other chamber orchestras and demands a high level of engagement from every musician.
The Amsterdam Sinfonietta’s repertoire spans a wide range of styles, from Baroque to contemporary works. Alongside performances of mainstream repertoire, the orchestra frequently explores lesser-known and newly commissioned pieces.
Over the course of its distinguished career, the orchestra has earned a strong reputation for creating innovative programs, presenting original combinations of works, and engaging in surprising collaborations involving video art, dance, and theater.