Since its creation in 1980 by the conductor Braz de Pina Filho, the Goiás Philharmonic Orchestra has committed itself to the democratisation of classical music in the Brazilian state of Goiás by placing particular emphasis on Brazilian music in its programmes.

In 2012, the orchestra underwent a major restructure that ushered in its most fruitful and creative period and led to the appointment in 2014 of Neil Thomson as principal conductor and artistic director. Under Thomson’s leadership the orchestra rapidly grew from its standing as an ensemble of local importance to one of national importance. Now widely regarded as one of the top three orchestras in Brazil, the Goiás Philharmonic Orchestra is known for its energetic and dynamic playing style and innovative approach to programming.

The orchestra has given the South American premieres of Messiaen’s Des canyons aux étoiles, Boulez’s Rituel in memoriam Bruno Maderna and Nono’s Como una ola de fuerza y luz. It is also engaged in a ten-year project to film the complete Haydn symphonies, ‘Haydn no Cerrado’.

Photo: Rafaella Pessoa