The orchestra was established in 1967 by Leningrad's outstanding conductors Nikolai Rabinovich, Karl Eliasberg, and Edward Grikurov. For efficient creative activity and excellent professionalism, and for promotion of Russian art abroad, the orchestra was given the honorary title of "Academic," which is only awarded in Russia to select musical collectives. The orchestra has performed in Moscow and other cities of Russia, in the Baltic States, in Finland and Norway, in Korea and Japan, in the United States, and in a dozen countries of Latin America. The ensemble contributes to all important music events and festivals of St. Petersburg. Its subscription symphonic series in Beloselsky-Belozersky Palace have been popular with Petersburgers of all ages for the recent decades.
