It is one of the most important cultural organizations in Greece and was founded in 1959 by the Greek composer Solon Michaelides, and in 1966 it became the state orchestra. The orchestra covers a wide range of artistic activities such as opera, ballet, music, silent films, and more. Moreover, the orchestra participates in a number of educational programs designed for children, youth and families, and aims to form a future audience of music lovers. One of its main objectives is to promote the Greek musical heritage.