Pannon Philharmonic Orchestra

Dating back to 1811, the Pannon Philharmonic Orchestra (formerly known as the Pécs Symphony Orchestra) has been a major force in Hungarian music for over 200 years, and following its reorganization in 1984, the orchestra has achieved international status. Originally formed as the Zeneművész Társaság ("musical company") by Johann Georg Lickl, the modern orchestra has undergone changes in its staffing and aims for professionalism in its process for hiring members and responding to the cultural needs of its community. The orchestra has toured Europe, and expanded its repertoire with more modern and contemporary music. Conductors of the orchestra have included Tamás Breitner, Howard Williams, Nicolás Pasquet, Zsolt Hamar, and Zoltán Peskó, and Tibor Bogányi and András Vass have served as chief conductor and resident conductor, respectively. The Pannon Philharmonic Orchestra often serves in a dual capacity, performing as a large concert orchestra and as a chamber orchestra, which gives the musicians greater flexibility in programming and showcasing talent. Frequently invited to music festivals in Hungary, the orchestra regularly appears at the Budapest Spring Festival, the Miskolc Opera Festival, and the Budapest Festival Orchestra Marathon. It has also toured around the world, giving concerts across Europe, Canada, and the United States. The orchestra has participated in many international projects, such as the Armel Opera Competition and Festival, and Operalia, The World Opera Competition. The Pannon Philharmonic Orchestra is the resident orchestra of the Kodály Centre of Pécs, with a schedule of 42 concerts, as well as a subscription series in Budapest.
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