[1] Initially a 20-piece string orchestra, the ensemble's first conductor was Nigel Wilkins, followed in 1964 by the German-born pianist and pedagogue Andreas Barban.
Under Barban's leadership, the orchestra was expanded to include woodwinds, brass, and percussion.
The current Music Director, Marc David, was hired in 1992 in the role of Principal Conductor.
Over the past twenty years, the choir has performed in more than seventy-five NSO productions ranging from Oratorio to opera in concert.
[5] While both the PCNSO and NSYO are affiliated with the NSO, each has its own governing committee and independent artistic direction.