In 1985 His Majesty directed that a Royal Symphony Orchestra be formed under the aegis of the Royal Guard of Oman. The project was unique from the outset, because unlike every other venture where Western classical music was introduced for the first time to a country, only Omani nationals are employed as players. There has been no support from experienced expatriate performers except in a teaching capacity. Moreover it was decided that all training should take place in Oman rather than in a foreign country, in order that the young Omanis selected remain within familiar surroundings.
The ROSO gave its inaugural concert on 1st July 1987, only one year after the beginning of music training. The first public concert followed on 5th July 1988 and both concerts were attended by His Majesty the Sultan in the Oman Auditorium in Muscat.
Initially all players were boys, but in November 1988 girls joined for the first time. During the following years the standard of achievement has risen steadily and demand for the ROSO has grown considerably. As well as performing an important personal service for His Majesty, Oman is one of the few countries in the world where distinguished visitors are greeted by live performances of classical music. The ROSO has a lively series of public concerts each year. These events bring to Oman classical masterpieces, often for the first time, as well as distinguished international soloists and conductors. The ROSO also contributes to many cultural, commercial and diplomatic events
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