The orchestra was founded by the violinist Bjarne Fiskum who got the idea for a summer course for young string talents summer 1975. Since its foundation the orchestra has recorded some 20 albums and been on numerous tours in Norway, Europe, Asia and United States. The orchestra has since 1995 held Oslo Vinternattsfestival each year. With a total of six times Spellemannprisen, including This years Spellemann in 1988, the orchestra is one of the most successful artists regardless of genre. 　　Terje Tønnesen has been artistic director of the orchestra since its inception. Iona Brown was artistic director of the orchestra from 1981 to 2001, ea position she shared with Tønnesen. Since 2002, in addition Leif Ove Andsnes been the orchestra's principal guest conductor. Since 2009, violinist Isabelle van Keulen has been associated with the orchestra as artistic director juxtaposed with Terje Tønnesen. 　　The Norwegian Chamber Orchestrais a project orchestra where musicians of the orchestra varies from project to project. The orchestra aims to bring together the best musicians in Norway to each project, capturing musicians from several of the Norwegian orchestras focusing on musicians from Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra, as well as extensive use of freelance musicians. The orchestra also tries to bring home the Norwegian musicians who work abroad for several of its projects. However, it is always a core of members who are helping to keep the continuity of the orchestra. 　　The orchestra produces 30-40 concerts annually and has a separate series in Oslo. In addition, the orchestra travels on separate tours in Norway, as well as visiting a number of festivals throughout the country. The orchestra has no permanent concert venue, but playing their concerts in Oslo in both Den Norske Opera, Oslo Concert Hall, Gamle Logen and a number of churches. The orchestra had for many years the University Hall in Oslo as the main arena, and when this will again open in 2011, will continue to play several of their concerts there. 　　The orchestra is funded through grants from the Norwegian government, and Oslo. Public support is ca. 50% of the funding. Other revenue comes from ticket sales, sales of concerts and sponsorship revenue.