CBC Vancouver Orchestra

Canadian Broadcasting Corporations Vancouver Symphony Ensemble

The CBC Vancouver Orchestra was the longest-lived regularly performing Canadian radio orchestra (1938-2008), and last remaining radio orchestra in North America. It operated as the CBC Vancouver Chamber Orchestra from 1938 to 1980, as the CBC Vancouver Orchestra from 1980 to 2000, and finally as The CBC Radio Orchestra from 2000 until its dissolution in 2008. It was originally comprised of 25 musicians and was increased to 35 in 1952. John Avison (1914-1983) was the first and longest-running conductor of the CBC Vancouver Orchestra, beginning with its inception in 1938. He remained until his retirement in 1980. Subsequent conductors: John Eliot Gardiner (1980-1983) Mario Bernardi (2) (1983-2006) Alain Trudel (2006-2008)