Born of a singular moment in history, the Rachmaninoff International Orchestra embodies the vision of its founder, Mikhail Pletnev, and his belief in the power of music to transcend borders and unite people across cultures.
The orchestra takes its name from Sergei Rachmaninoff—the legendary composer, pianist, and conductor whose life and art were shaped by exile and longing for his homeland. Like its namesake, the RIO is devoted to artistic freedom, emotional depth, and the highest standards of musical excellence.
Comprising distinguished musicians from across Eastern and Western Europe, the RIO brings together diverse traditions in a shared pursuit of beauty and expression. Its performances and recordings span a wide classical repertoire, with a special focus on Romantic and modern composers whose works have been central to Pletnev’s celebrated interpretations.
Through its artistry, the RIO continues Rachmaninoff’s legacy—bridging past and present, East and West, and reminding audiences everywhere of music’s enduring ability to connect the human spirit.
The RIO’s recordings showcase a broad and distinctive repertoire, including, for the EuroArts label, Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake Suite, Shchedrin’s Carmen Suite, Rachmaninoff’s four piano concertos and Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, as well as Pletnev’s own Rachmaniana, Trumpet Concerto, and 14 Mémoires musicales. The orchestra has also recorded an album for Farao Classics featuring works by Hartmann, Ravel, and Sadikova.