Music

Stage-diving with Beethoven: The Philadelphia Orchestra

The Philadelphia Orchestra explodes on stage at The Mann Center for Performing Arts Thursday, July 17, 2008, at 8:00 pm. To be honest, they’re not literally going to explode on stage or do any stage-diving, for that matter. But there will be fireworks, Berlioz and Beethoven.

Bramwell Tovey conducts. Orion Weiss on piano.

Selections from Berlioz include “Rakoczy” March, from The Damnation of Faust, and Symphonie Fantastique. Beethoven is represented by Piano Concerto No. 1.

Is it possible you don’t know much about the Philadelphia Orchestra? Founded in 1900, the Orchestra has distinguished itself worldwide through a century of acclaimed performances, historic international tours, best-selling recordings, and record of innovation and outreach.

Plus, they’re really really really good.

The Orchestra maintained an unparalleled vision of artistic unity during its first 100 years, with only six musical directors during that time span. Wolfgang Sawallisch retired in 2003, and was succeeded by Christopher Eschenbach who, though in his final season, has led the Orchestra strongly into the new century. Recent highlights include the launch of an online music store, regular broadcasts on NPR, a series of acclaimed recordings, and a $125 million endowment campaign.

Umm…that’s pretty good.

The Philadelphia Orchestra annually touches the lives of more than one million music lovers worldwide. You could say they’re kind of a big deal.

Don’t forget - The Mann Center for Performing Arts on 123 S. Broad St., Suite 1930, Philadelphia, PA, 19109. Ticket information can be found here. If you have additional questions call 215.546.7900 and mutter, “It’s all about the Beethoven, baby.”

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