La Stravaganza Köln was founded in 1988. After a formative phase the orchestra found an important partner in the English violinist Andrew Manze who directed it for six years. His growing commitments with The Academy Of Ancient Music forced his departure and led to a series of exciting projects under various leaders. International invitations led the orchestra to Holland, France, Austria, Italy, Spain and the USA. The internationally renowned violinist Veronika Skuplik has led the orchestra since 1999.