Orchestra on Wheels
Osmo Vänskä has shaped nearly every aspect of the Minnesota Orchestra's experience in his time as music director, including its global reach and relevance. The ensemble, known in its earliest days as “the Orchestra on Wheels” for its unflagging domestic touring (largely by train), embarked on a new golden age of international touring under Vänskä’s leadership.
Since 2004, he has led the Orchestra on four Minnesota tours, five European tours—including three appearances at the world’s largest classical music festival, London’s BBC Proms—and historic visits to Cuba and South Africa. “I just have put my heart there and I have tried to do everything with the Orchestra as well as possible,” he says. “I have tried to open my mind for big dreams and it has been a great adventure. I’m really grateful that I have had a chance to work with a great orchestra.”
Enjoy this video reflection
Related Articles
Behind the Scenes
Orchestra Hall at 50
Michael Anthony look back at the origins at Orchestra Hall and reflects on how its first half-century has impacted audiences, musicians and the sound of the Minnesota Orchestra itself.
Behind the Scenes
Orchestra Hall Information
Behind the Scenes
Meet Justice Alan C. Page
Behind the Scenes
More Than What’s on Stage: The Orchestra Puts Down Roots in Austin
Behind the Scenes