The **Thessaloniki State Symphony Orchestra (TSSO)** is one of Greece's most prominent cultural institutions, founded in 1959 by the renowned Greek composer Solon Michaelides. It became a state orchestra in 1966 and has since been led by several notable Greek musicians, including Georgios Thymis, Alkis Baltas, Karolos Trikolidis, Kosmas Galileas, and Leonidas Kavakos. The orchestra boasts an extensive repertoire spanning from the baroque to avant-garde periods, and it actively promotes Greek music heritage by performing numerous Greek and world premieres. TSSO also supports young artists, many of whom have gone on to achieve international recognition.
Today, the TSSO consists of approximately 120 musicians and is known for its diverse artistic activities, including symphonic concerts, opera, ballet, and educational programs. The orchestra regularly performs at significant venues in Greece and abroad, such as the Athens Megaron Concert Hall and international festivals in Cyprus, Marseille, and Valencia. TSSO has recorded for prominent labels like BIS and NAXOS, and its recent productions include notable works by Beethoven and Greek composers. The orchestra's current artistic director is Zoi Tsokanou, marking a significant milestone as the first woman to hold this position.
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