Russische Nationalphilharmonie or The National Philharmonic Orchestra of Russia (NPR) was founded by the Ministry of Culture in 2003. The objective of the orchestra is to bring together the finest musicians and talent in the field of classical music. Since its inception, it has become one of the best orchestras of Russia. It is headed by renowned composer Vladimir Spivakov. The orchestra has also collaborated with other maestros like Ken-David Masur, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Lazarev, Simon Gaudenz, Tugan Sokhiev, Jan Latham-Koenig, Michel Plasson and others. Opera stars like Placido Domingo, Kiri Te Kanawa, Maria Gulegina, matthias Goerne, Ferruccio Furlanetto, Ramon Vargas and Anna Netrebko have also been associated with the NPR.