The Ostrobothnian Chamber Orchestra is a Finnish ensemble based in Kokkola established in 1972. The group was founded by the conductor Juha Kangas who directed the ensemble until 2008, and has served as an honorary conductor. Originally a student ensemble, they evolved into a professional orchestra and perform a repertoire spanning from Baroque to contemporary music. Sakari Oramo served as artistic director between 2013 and 2019, followed by Malin Broman whose tenure continued through 2024. Kasmir Uusitupa was appointed as artistic director designate in autumn 2026. The ensemble has premiered over 190 pieces many of which were commissioned from Nordic and Finnish composers including a long-term collaboration with Pehr Henrik Nordgren. Their recording career included the studio recording Hamburg Symphonies (2014) which won a Finnish Emma Award and was nominated for a record of the year award by BBC Music Magazine. The group reached professional recognition in 2025 when the studio recording Finnish Accordion Concertos won the Emma Award for classical music. The orchestra has performed international tours in locations including Japan, Europe, and New York.
