Philadelphia Orchestra facts for kids
The Philadelphia Orchestra is a famous American orchestra. It is based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. An orchestra is a large group of musicians who play different instruments together.
This orchestra performs over 130 concerts each year. These concerts usually happen from September to May. During the summer, the Orchestra also plays outdoor concerts for a month.
The Philadelphia Orchestra was started in 1900. For many years, it performed at the Academy of Music. Since 2001, its main home has been the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts.
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History of the Orchestra
The Philadelphia Orchestra has a long and interesting history. It was founded by a group of music lovers. They wanted to bring great orchestral music to Philadelphia.
Early Years and First Conductors
The orchestra played its very first concert in 1900. Its first conductor was Fritz Scheel. He helped build the orchestra's sound. Later, Leopold Stokowski became the music director. He was very important in making the orchestra famous. He led many exciting performances.
Becoming World-Renowned
Under Stokowski and later conductors, the Philadelphia Orchestra became known worldwide. They were famous for their rich, warm sound. This special sound is sometimes called the "Philadelphia Sound." The orchestra made many recordings. They also toured to different countries.
Modern Era and New Homes
The orchestra first performed at the Academy of Music. This beautiful building was its home for over 100 years. In 2001, the orchestra moved to the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. This modern building has a special concert hall called Verizon Hall.
The orchestra also plays in other places. In the summer, they perform at the Mann Center for the Performing Arts. They also have a summer residency at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center in New York.
The Orchestra Today
Today, the Philadelphia Orchestra continues to be a leading orchestra. It performs a wide range of music. This includes classical pieces and new works by modern composers.
Current Leadership
Yannick Nézet-Séguin is the current principal conductor. He started in 2012. He helps the orchestra continue its tradition of excellence. The orchestra also works with many guest conductors and soloists.
Educational Programs
The Philadelphia Orchestra also cares about teaching young people. They have programs that introduce kids to classical music. They believe music is important for everyone.
Images for kids
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Fritz Scheel, the first conductor of the Philadelphia Orchestra
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Leopold Stokowski, music director from 1912 to 1938
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The Philadelphia Orchestra with Stokowski for the American premiere of Mahler's Eighth Symphony, March 2, 1916.
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Yannick Nézet-Séguin, principal conductor from 2012.
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Charles Dutoit and the Philadelphia Orchestra concert in Tianjin
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Academy of Music, the orchestra's home from 1900 to 2001.
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Mann Center for the Performing Arts, the orchestra's summer home since 1976.
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Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts (opened 2001), Verizon Hall is the orchestra's current home.
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Saratoga Performing Arts Center in Saratoga Springs, New York, a summer home since 1966.
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See also
In Spanish: Orquesta de Filadelfia para niños
