Rheinland-Pfalz State Philharmonic Orchestra

The Deutsche Staatsphilharmonie Rheinland-Pfalz is a regional orchestra serving several states along Germany's Rhine River. It has a long history and has served as a training ground for several conductors who have gone on to international careers. Karl-Heinz Steffens assumed the music directorship in 2009; he has brought the orchestra honors and wide attention, and has been a champion of contemporary music. The orchestra has a long history on recordings, but Steffens has also brought its most sustained effort: a multi-disc recording contract with the Capriccio label that has surveyed a wide range of 20th century music. ~ James Manheim