RCA Victor Orchestra

The RCA Victor Orchestra, founded in 1940 by the RCA Victor record label, was a prestigious American studio orchestra renowned for its exceptional recordings. Initially based in Camden, New Jersey, the orchestra evolved from earlier ensembles employed by the Victor Talking Machine Company, with a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Throughout its active years, the RCA Victor Orchestra collaborated with some of the most celebrated conductors of the time, including Leopold Stokowski, Fritz Reiner, and Leonard Bernstein, among others. The orchestra's roster featured talented musicians drawn from the ranks of the New York Philharmonic, the Metropolitan Opera, and the NBC Symphony Orchestra, ensuring a high standard of performance. Their recordings, many of which received Grammy Awards, showcased a diverse repertoire and left an indelible mark on the classical music landscape. The RCA Victor Orchestra continued to make recordings until the early 1960s, when RCA Victor shifted its focus to Europe, marking the end of an era for this esteemed ensemble.