Orchestra da Camera del Locarnese

L’Orchestra da Camera del Locarnese (OCL) |The Chamber Orchestra of Locarnese is a string orchestra comprised of 20 instrumentalists of mixed proficiency, from amateur to students, from the Italian Swiss area of Ticino.

It aims to cultivate the love of music in non-professional musicians, offering them the opportunity to play, study and perform in concerts throughout the year, under the guidance of its permanent conductor and artistic director Andreas Laake.

Born from a group of musicians from Locarno “Musica Insieme di Minusio”, directed by Livio Vanoni, the Orchestra was established as an Association based in Ascona, under the name “Locarno Chamber Orchestra” in 1994. It was then lead by Alvaro Spagnoli, and further by Ivan Rajower, and since 1997 Andreas Laake has consolidated its development and aims. In 2001, having a desire to expand, it became the “Locarnese Chamber Orchestra”.

All those who, in the opinion of the artistic director, demonstrate sufficient musical knowledge can join as active members. The right to join the Association is also given to any members who, while not actively participating in the orchestral staff, show an interest in the Association’s activities. Supporting friends are always welcome; they receive information regarding the Orchestra’s activity and sometimes a CD; the participation fee is left to everyone’s free will.