Our orchestra
The Louvain-la-Neuve Student Symphony Orchestra (OSEL) currently brings together around seventy musicians under the direction of Philippe Gérard.
Over the years, the orchestra has gained increasing recognition both in Louvain-la-Neuve and throughout Belgium thanks to collaborations with the Festival de Wallonie, the Royal Conservatory of Brussels, and the Royal Theatre of La Monnaie.
Each year, OSEL presents two ambitious and accessible concert programmes. Through student-friendly pricing and communication, the orchestra aims to make classical music accessible to everyone.
OSEL is classical music by students, for students.
The orchestra regularly collaborates with professional musicians and both established and emerging soloists, giving students the opportunity to take part in artistic projects supervised by renowned professionals.
Over the years, OSEL has accompanied many distinguished artists such as Lorenzo Gatto, Camille Thomas, Ronald Van Spaendonck, and Jean-Claude Vanden Eynden.
Being part of OSEL also means joining a young and friendly community. Rehearsals, orchestra weekends, trips, and tours all provide opportunities to share memorable experiences together.
Founded in 1981 under the direction of Philippe Mercier, OSEL now has more than 35 years of history.
Several conductors led the orchestra before Philippe Gérard took over in 1999, including Jacqueline Fontyn, Guy Douchy, Antonio Sapere, and Christian Debauve.
The orchestra has always aimed to present varied and accessible programmes, ranging from the great symphonic repertoire to film music and original projects such as the "Rock-Symphonic" concert.
In order to broaden its audience and develop its musical experience, OSEL regularly performs outside Louvain-la-Neuve and takes part in international tours.
The orchestra has notably performed in Spain, Italy, France, Latvia, and Portugal.
In 2002, members of the orchestra founded the OSEL non-profit association to organize and support the orchestra's activities.
Today, the association is managed by a board composed of orchestra musicians and chaired by Laurent Paucot.
Thanks to the energy of its members, the support of the university, and the loyalty of its audience, OSEL has continued for decades to bring symphonic music to life and share it with the public.