The origin of Les Lumières lies in a yet unsolved problem: Young musical professionals are well-trained and highly motivated, but as newcomers they can rarely find a permanent spot in an orchestra. In discussions with musicians of the Cologne A-orchestra and some well-known ensembles, the following idea crystallised: the new orchestra must be so good that the time at Les Lumières can be used as an important reference and stepping stone. Founder and artistic director Michel Rychlinski: “We have to play at the top of the league, in order to reach our aspirations.” During the process, the newcomers will not only learn from the professionals, in return, they will give impulses upon which new approaches will be developed. Because the young musicians will have to leave the group when they find a permanent position, some fluctuation is conceptually wanted.