Lolly Posted March 15, 2002 Share Posted March 15, 2002 Can anyone explain the difference between a philharmonic and a symphonic orchestra? My dictionary said a philharmonic orchestra is a music-loving one, but I think that is a given! Are there other kinds too? Sorry if it is a silly question, but I can't work out if the orchestra is actually different, or if it is just a name. Thank you! Link to comment
Farrell Fan Posted March 15, 2002 Share Posted March 15, 2002 As far as I can tell, it's a distinction without a difference. The dictionary definition refers back to the roots of the word philharmonic -- the Greek philo and the Latin harmonicus -- a lover of harmony or music. Orchestras that play symphonic music are known by a variety of names --the Philadelphia Orchestra, the London Symphony, the Vienna Philharmonic -- but the names have no bearing on the music they play. Link to comment
Hal Posted March 16, 2002 Share Posted March 16, 2002 Its all very weird: New York Philharmonic (no orchestra) Boston Symphony Orchestra Philadelphia Orchestra Cleveland Orchestra Chicago Symphony Orchestra I think those are the big 5 in the US. 1 Philharmonic 4 Orchestras 2 Symphonies Link to comment
LMCtech Posted March 17, 2002 Share Posted March 17, 2002 You forgot San Francisco Symphony Orchestra. Link to comment
Gyromatic39 Posted April 3, 2002 Share Posted April 3, 2002 I recall my music teacher said it had to do with quality and prestige a long time ago, though nowaday it's solely for name purposes Link to comment
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