Founded in 1973 by noted conductor Louis Richmond, the Northwest Chamber Orchestra has grown impressively over the years in size, stature and artistic excellence.  Nurtured by a number of talented music directors, including Alun Francis 1980-1985, Heiichiro Ohyama 1986-1990, Sidney Harth 1990-1993, and Adam Stern 1994-2000, the Chamber Orchestra is honored to welcome Finnish conductor, composer and pianist Ralf Gothóni as its current Music Director and Principal Conductor.

Now in its 30^th year, the Northwest Chamber Orchestra has been recognized as one of the outstanding chamber ensembles in the United States and Europe. From Bach to Schnittke, Haydn to Glass, the Northwest Chamber Orchestra is committed to presenting the very best of the classical and contemporary chamber repertoire.

Twenty professional string musicians comprise the core of the Northwest Chamber Orchestra.  Their musical acumen is supplemented by an outstanding roster of internationally acclaimed guests artists, as well as accomplished local wind, brass and percussion ensemble players.

The intimate Illsley Nordstrom Recital Hall in Seattle's premiere concert venue, Benaroya Hall, is home to fourteen Mainstage performances and five Showcase Chamber Music concerts.  The Recital Hall, in fact, was designed to accommodate the Northwest Chamber Orchestra.  Five Concerts in the Park, performed in the gracious Seattle Asian Art Museum, feature smaller ensembles that focus on individual composers.  The Parks concerts are especially suited to families.  Children 17 and under are admitted free with an accompanying adult to all concerts.