The Scottish Chamber Orchestra was formed in 1974 with a commitment to serve the Scottish community. It is recognised as one of Scotland’s major cultural ambassadors, touring internationally and appearing regularly at the Edinburgh, St Magnus and Aldeburgh Festivals and the BBC Proms as well as performing throughout Scotland. Principal conductor Robin Ticciati took up his post from the 2009/10 season and has established a highly successful partnership. The SCO’s long-standing relationship with its conductor laureate, the late Sir Charles Mackerras, resulted in many exceptional performances and award-winning recordings. The orchestra enjoys close relationships with many leading composers and has commissioned more than a hundred new works, including a number of pieces by its composer laureate Sir Peter Maxwell Davies. The Scottish Chamber Orchestra receives funding from the Scottish government.