This orchestra first performed in 1860 and is the second oldest philharmonic in the United States behind the New York Philharmonic. It is made of over 100 volunteers, often whole families, from all walks of life, who pay $10 to play and work together to produce performances of the highest level, equal to any professional show.
In the 1980s they were based at the city’s Webster University and at the turn of the century they relocated to the St. Louis Community College-Meramec’s Kirkwood campus.
Giving regular performances in the St. Louis area they hold an Annual Pops Benefit Concert alongside their yearly concert subscription series to help support the orchestra. Playing host to several resident and guest conductors and professional soloists, their current conductor is Dr. Robert Hart Baker.
Leroy Anderson recordings
A Christmas Festival
Sonari records – 7 55724 00272 3 (CD: Christmas with the Philharmonic)
Conductor – Robert Hart Baker
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