In 2012, BRSSO was granted the Orchestra of the Year award with votes from more than 200 Turkish professionals the public at the reputable Donizetti Classical Music Awards Ceremony. This has been the first time this award has been acquired by a state orchestra.

The 2012 Donizetti Classical Music Awards Ceremony was organised by classical music magazine Andante and hosted by the Municipality of Beyoğlu, with the contributions of the KÜSAV Foundation.