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About The Philadelphia Orchestra

Celebrating 125 years of The Philadelphia Orchestra

Key Historic People and Moments

The Philadelphia Orchestra’s story began in 1900, when a group of visionary musicians and civic leaders came together with a dream: to share the power of music with their city.

From those first concerts in the Academy of Music to groundbreaking moments that changed the course of orchestral history, the Orchestra has always been defined by bold ideas, a pioneering spirit, and a love of music that transcends borders. Today, under the leadership of Yannick Nézet-Séguin, that same spirit lives on as the Orchestra celebrates 125 years of inspiring audiences around the world. We invite you to explore some of the milestones that shaped the Orchestra’s journey, and discover how our history continues to guide the music we make today. 

Learn About Our History

Notable Composers

Key Historic Moments

Touring History

Music Directors

Recordings

Witness to History Blogs

Witness to History: Ward Marston on the Orchestra’s Recording Legacy

Witness to History: Carole Haas Gravagno on the Importance of Arts Education

Witness to History: Richard L. Smoot on Building the Kimmel Center

Witness to History: Susan Gould on Her Role as President of the Volunteer Committees and Director of Major Gifts

Witness to History: Edward G. Rendell on the Creation of the Avenue of the Arts and the Kimmel Center

Witness to History: Christoph Eschenbach, the Orchestra’s Seventh Music Director

Witness to History: Nancy Plum on Kittens in the Kimmel

Explore our Instagram

125th Birthday Supporters

Thank you to the generous donors who supported The Philadelphia Orchestra’s 125th birthday!