As one of the world's oldest orchestras, the Staatskapelle Dresden is steeped in tradition. Founded in 1548 by Moritz, Elector of Saxony, its history is inextricably linked with the city of Dresden, the royal Saxon court and its theatre. Until today, the venerable ensemble performs some 250 operas and ballets each season at its home in the Semperoper. In addition, the orchestra presents around 50 symphonic concerts, matinee events and chamber music evenings. Daniele Gatti has been Principal Conductor of the Staatskapelle Dresden since 2024/25 concert season. Celebrated for its unmistakable "Dresden sound", the Staatskapelle is one of the world's leading symphony orchestras, appearing at major international music venues several times each season. From 2013 to 2022, the ensemble was resident orchestra at the Salzburg Easter Festival. For this successful decade of work at the Salzach River, it was awarded the Herbert von Karajan Prize. In 2007, the Staatskapelle was the first - and until today the only - orchestra to receive the "European Cultural Foundation Prize for the Preservation of the World's Musical Heritage".