The Osaka Philharmonic Orchestra was founded in 1947 under the name Kansai Symphony, and was reorganized and renamed in 1960. Since the Orchestra’s establishment until his death in 2001, Takshi Asahina, the founder of the Osaka Philharmonic, served as the Music Director for 55 years, and became a familiar symbol of the personality and charm of the Osaka Philharmonic. He is succeeded by Eiji Oue. The Orchestra, which has ninety-seven members, has traveled all over Japan, as well as Europe, North America, Korea and Taiwan.