Founded in 1970, the Orchestra of Welsh National Opera has earned high praise as much for its distinction in a wide-ranging operatic repertoire, extending from Monteverdi through Handel and Mozart to Wagner, Janácek, Maxwell Davies and MacMillan, as for its concert work and large portfolio of recordings. Former Music Directors include Richard Armstrong (1973–86), Sir Charles Mackerras (1987–92, now Conductor Laureate), Carlo Rizzi (1992–2001 and 2004–07) and Tugan Sokhiev (2002–04), who were succeeded in autumn 2009 by Lothar Koenigs. The opera company’s home since 2004 has been the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff Bay. In addition to undertaking extensive operatic tours throughout the UK and abroad, the Orchestra has over recent years achieved a very strong profile on the concert platform. It has featured in many symphonic concerts in Cardiff, made several visits to the BBC Proms, and given concerts at major Welsh and English venues and festivals. The Orchestra of Welsh National Opera has taken part with distinction in the biennial BBC Cardiff Singer of the World competition since its inception.