From its inception in 1962, Camerata Bern has played without a conductor and instead takes its cues from its concertmaster, who until 1979 was Alexander van Wijnkoop. The group played music of all eras but became especially known for its lively way with 18th century music. The group soon began touring Europe and was already performing in the United States and Asia in 1967. Van Wijnkoop was succeeded by Thomas Füri, just in time for Camerata Bern to land a contract with the label Archiv. The ensemble's initial LPs made a strong international impression even though they featured music by such obscure figures as Zelenka, Holzbauer, Cannabich, and Lebrun. Wind players were contracted as necessary, and tours included a major soloist; from 1974 well into the 1980s, this was often oboist Heinz Holliger. Antje Weithaas served as artistic director from 2009-2018, she was succeeded by Patricia Kopatchinskaja in 2018.