The National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) is one of America’s premier symphony orchestras, based in Washington, D.C. and resident at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Founded in 1930 by cellist Hans Kindler, the NSO has grown into a 96-member ensemble that performs approximately 150 concerts each year, including classical and pops programs at the Kennedy Center, summer performances at Wolf Trap, and iconic appearances on the lawn of the U.S. Capitol.
As the orchestra of the nation’s capital, the NSO regularly participates in events of national and international significance, including presidential inaugurations and official state celebrations. The orchestra has been led by a distinguished succession of music directors, including Mstislav Rostropovich (1977–94), Leonard Slatkin (1996–2008), Christoph Eschenbach (2010–17), and current music director Gianandrea Noseda (2017–present).
The NSO maintains a deep commitment to music education and community engagement, including its NSO Youth Fellowship Program, Summer Music Institute, and the nationally recognized NSO In Your Neighborhood initiative. Virtuosi of Houston alumnus Ira Gold has served as a member of the NSO since 2005.

Professional Orchestra