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What is the difference between a philharmonic orchestra and a symphonic orchestra?

What is the difference between a philharmonic orchestra and a symphonic one?

  • Answer:

    Same thing. Philharmonic sounds a little grander, I think, so it seems to be used for larger or older ensembles. "Symphonic" on the other hand indicates to me that the orchestra is sized to perform classical works of all sizes; this is as opposed to a dance orchestra that is geared towards popular music, or a chamber orchestra that performs classical works that do not require large ensembles (Mozart, say, as opposed to Mahler). There are "symphonic" bands or wind ensembles that pretty much do the same thing as "symphonic" orchestras -- that is, they perform classical or "serious" works -- but without strings (thus "band" and not "orchestra").

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I think it has something to do with financials. Philharmonic orchestras have been supported by a direct board, but the symphony has an administration etc.

emily

Absolutely none other than the name. It's what's called semantics...

Katrina M

the philharnomic orchestra is the name of the band.. so to speak.. the philharmonic orchestra is a symphonic orchestra.

tootsie38

1. Devoted to or appreciative of music. 2. Relating to a symphony orchestra. Also Philharmonic A symphony orchestra or the group that supports it. French philharmonique, from Italian filarmonico : Greek phil-, philo-, philo- + Greek harmonika, theory of music, from/of harmonikos, musical. ----- a. An extended piece in three or more movements for symphony orchestra. b. An instrumental passage in a vocal or choral composition. c. An instrumental overture or interlude, as in early opera. 2. Music a. A symphony orchestra. b. An orchestral concert. 3. Harmony, especially of sound or color. 4. Something characterized by a harmonious combination of elements. Middle English symphonye, harmony, from Old French symphonie, from Latin symphnia, from Greek sumphni, from sumphnos, harmonious : sun-, syn- + phn, sound; see bh-2 in Indo-European roots. Really is the same thing.

tiger

No difference.

Ted

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