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.<\/p>\n
It was the first orchestra on the radio, on television and in the movies.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
The orchestra is also celebrating it’s 25th season in the Kimmel Center and the nation’s Semiquincentennial.<\/p>\n
In May, music director Yannick N\u00e9zet-S\u00e9guin will lead the orchestra in a world premiere commissioned by the orchestra, from Pulitzer prize-winning, Philadelphia-based composer, Tyshawn Sorey.<\/p>\n
Principal Guest Conductor Marin Alsop will present the world premiere of Jazz legend Wynton Marsalis’Liberty Symphony in May as well.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
The season also features choral masterworks like Mozart’s Requiem and Mahler’s Symphony Number two.<\/p>\n
The popular Orchestra After 5 happy hour series is back as well.<\/p>\n