PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — Some of the biggest stars in classical music–Yo-Yo Ma, Lang Lang, Itzhak Perlman-are taking the stage of Marian Anderson Hall to help celebrate the orchestra’s artistic legacy. The ensemble’s long history of innovation is one of the themes of this celebratory season.
It was the first orchestra on the radio, on television and in the movies.
And it was the first orchestra to premiere some of the greatest music in the world. To honor that legacy, the musicians will play a number of pieces that the Philadelphia Orchestra brought to America for the very first time.
The orchestra is also celebrating it’s 25th season in the Kimmel Center and the nation’s Semiquincentennial.
In May, music director Yannick Nézet-Séguin will lead the orchestra in a world premiere commissioned by the orchestra, from Pulitzer prize-winning, Philadelphia-based composer, Tyshawn Sorey.
Principal Guest Conductor Marin Alsop will present the world premiere of Jazz legend Wynton Marsalis’Liberty Symphony in May as well.
The work is a celebration of all of the musical cultures in America and will feature the musicians of the Philadelphia Orchestra on stage with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra.
The season also features choral masterworks like Mozart’s Requiem and Mahler’s Symphony Number two.
The popular Orchestra After 5 happy hour series is back as well.
Philadelphia Orchestra 2025-26 Season
Copyright © 2026 WPVI-TV. All Rights Reserved.