In its 40 years of existence, the NFM Leopoldinum Orchestra has become a well-respected ensemble on the classical music scene. Its current standing has been shaped by different schools of ensemble direction (the orchestra has been headed by Karol Teutsch, Jan Stanienda, Zbigniew Szufłat, Heinrich Schiff, Antoni Wit, Ernst Kovacic, and Hartmut Rohde). They have developed an approach to music that allows both emotional aspects and clarity of musical structure and voices to shine through. Initially focused mainly on Classical and Baroque music, later the orchestra expanded its repertoire through to the 20th century. The ensemble’s recordings are highly praised for the quality of both the performance and programming. For several years now the priority of the NFM Leopoldinum Orchestra has been to perform compositions by renowned 20thand 21st-century composers. The ensemble presents listeners with works of the highest standards, including some that rarely feature in mainstream concert programmes. The remarkable violinist and conductor Joseph Swensen has been the artistic director of the NFM Leopoldinum Orchestra since September 2017.