The Philadelphia Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra is a distinguished ensemble with a fast-growing international reputation for excellence. Praised for its "innovative programming" by the Philadelphia Inquirer, the orchestra’s electric performances are often described by the press with comments such as "captivating" (London Observer), "dazzling" (Palm Beach Daily News), "exciting" (San Francisco Examiner), "breathtaking" (Bermuda Royal Gazette), and "magnificent" (San Bernardino County Sun). Composed of some of the region’s foremost musicians, the group was founded in 1991 by music director and conductor Daniel Spalding. Under his baton, the orchestra performs an annual concert series in Center City Philadelphia, as well as in unusual venues throughout the region designed to reach new audiences. The orchestra’s vast repertoire encompasses Baroque to Modern. Programs often include new discoveries of less-known works, world premieres, and arrangements written especially for the Philadelphia Virtuosi, as well as standard repertoire, sometimes performed with creative visual effects such as special lighting or stage movement.