The Concertgebouworkest is one of the very best orchestras in the world. Since its foundation in 1888 it has collaborated with the greatest conductors and soloists. ‘Royal’ status was officially conferred on the orchestra on the occasion of its Centenary Celebration. Her Majesty Queen Máxima is the orchestra’s patron.
  The orchestra has cultivated a distinct, individual sound, one which is due in part to the unique acoustics of The Concertgebouw. Only seven chief conductors have led the Concertgebouworkest since it was founded, and their influence, too, has been considerable: Willem Kes (chief conductor from 1888 to 1895), Willem Mengelberg (1895–1945), Eduard van Beinum (1945–59), Bernard Haitink (1961–88), Riccardo Chailly (1988–2004) Mariss Jansons (2004–15) and Daniele Gatti (2016–18).