State Symphony Orchestra of the USSR

The State Symphony Orchestra of the USSR, founded in 1936, was one of the Soviet Union’s most prestigious orchestral ensembles. Established under the Soviet government’s cultural initiatives, it became a powerhouse for interpreting both Russian and international classical works. Led by legendary conductors like Alexander Gauk and later Evgeny Svetlanov (who served as principal conductor for over three decades), the orchestra earned acclaim for its bold, emotionally charged performances. Their repertoire spanned everything from fiery Russian classics by Glinka, Tchaikovsky, and Shostakovich to European staples by Beethoven, Dvořak, and Bach, as showcased in their prolific recordings. Known for touring globally, they acted as a cultural ambassador during the Cold War era. After the USSR dissolved in 1991, the orchestra was renamed the Russian State Symphony Orchestra, preserving its legacy while continuing to record and perform timeless works with the same intensity that defined its Soviet-era heyday.

Genres

Classical

Contemporary Classical

Opera

Baroque

Chamber Music

Neo-classical

Neoclassical

Latest Release

Dvorak: 16 Slavonic Dances

Antonín Dvořák•

State Symphony Orchestra of the USSR

Album - 8 Tracks - Released February 8, 2010