Casa da Ospa

Founded in 1959 by Hungarian-born conductor Pablo Komlós, he led the Porto Alegre Symphony Orchestra until 1978 and is responsible for its nationwide prestige and endurance. Up until 1964, Ospa was funded by member donations from the local community.  Formerly known as Porto Alegre Symphony Orchestra Society, in January 1965 the state government was authorized to incorporate the organization. Thus, it became a local state foundation under decree-law no. 17.173. Musicians had their public servant status acknowledged, including that of foreigners provided they were naturalized citizens.