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Celebrating 125 years of The Philadelphia Orchestra

Music Directors

The Orchestra’s identity has been shaped by its visionary leaders. Each music director’s unique artistic voice has guided the ensemble through eras of growth, innovation, and international acclaim. 

1900–07: Fritz Scheel

As the Orchestra’s first music director, Fritz Scheel established its high artistic standards and early identity. His tenure included Richard Strauss’s guest appearance, the American debut of a 19-year-old Arthur Rubinstein, and a White House performance for President Theodore Roosevelt. 

 

1907–12: Carl Pohlig

Carl Pohlig broadened the Orchestra’s repertoire to include more contemporary European works and oversaw an expansion of the Orchestra’s season and touring schedule. He invited Sergei Rachmaninoff to make his conducting debut with an American orchestra, which was the beginning of a long relationship between the legendary composer and the Orchestra.

1912–41: Leopold Stokowski

Leopold Stokowski elevated the Orchestra to new artistic heights, shaping its lush “Philadelphia Sound.” A visionary, he championed new music, pioneered innovative concert formats, and expanded recording and touring. He also inspired Walt Disney to create Fantasia, conducting the film’s iconic score with the Orchestra.

1936–80: Eugene Ormandy

Eugene Ormandy’s remarkable 44-year tenure made him the longest-serving music director of any major American orchestra. Under his leadership, the Philadelphians achieved international fame, recorded prolifically, and toured extensively, solidifying their reputation among the world’s finest.

1980–92: Riccardo Muti

Riccardo Muti was named principal guest conductor in 1977 and assumed the role of music director in 1980. He championed the commissioning of new American works and led important international tours, including the ensemble’s first trip to Israel. 

1993–2003: Wolfgang Sawallisch

Wolfgang Sawallisch, known for his elegant interpretations, preserved the Orchestra’s musical excellence. He led the ensemble’s 20th anniversary tour to China, the first since 1973, and the 1999 Tour of Asia, where the Philadelphians become the first American orchestra to perform in Vietnam.

2003–08: Christoph Eschenbach

Christoph Eschenbach sought to break down barriers between the Orchestra and its audience with initiatives like “Raise the Invisible Curtain.” A champion of contemporary music, he also secured the ensemble’s first recording contract in nearly a decade.

2012–Present: Yannick Nézet-Séguin

Yannick Nézet-Séguin has brought renewed energy, artistic excellence, and deepened community connections in his tenure. He and the Orchestra are committed to performing and recording the works of previously overlooked composers, including Florence Price. Their recording of Price’s First and Third symphonies earned their first GRAMMY Award.