The Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra gave its first concert over 156 years ago. The orchestra is a self-governing entity that has selected some of the world's leading conductors and soloists to join its ranks over the years. In 1842, Otto Nicolai created the orchestra and provided four principles that still govern the orchestra today.
The founding principles of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra are:
1) Only musicians who play in the orchestra of the Vienna State Opera (formerly the Court Opera) are eligible to become a member of the orchestra. 2) The orchestra is artistically, organizationally, and financially autonomous. 3) All decisions are reached on a democratic basis by the orchestra's members during the general meetings. 4) A democratically elected body of 12 committee members is responsible for the day-to-day management of the orchestra.
The orchestra is unique in part due to the use of authentic, historical instruments. Alterations in the construction and design of instruments, especially woodwinds and brass, were instituted in the 1800s, but the orchestra has maintained the original designs used prior to the 19th Century. At a concert, listeners can hear the sounds of old-style clarinets, brass instruments, and the Viennese oboe.
In 1870, the orchestra moved into its third and final home called the Goldener Saal of the Wiener Musikverein. The building is one of the greatest concert halls in the world and was designed to enhance the acoustic quality to the highest levels. The real secret of the hall, however, is an empty room below the stage that functions as a soundboard.
In 1939, the orchestra inaugurated its New Year's concert that has turned into one of its most anticipated events. Throughout the years, the orchestra continued to grow in esteem, but the ensemble began experiencing controversy due to its refusal to grant women membership in the group.
The Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra was the last major orchestra to refuse membership to women, but finally changed its policy when it admitted harpist Anna Lelkes in 1997. The orchestra continues to be recognized around the world for its musical excellence, and consistently plays to sold-out crowds around the world.
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