If you’ve ever looked at a concert program and wondered why one group is called a philharmonic, another a symphony, and yet another just an orchestra, you’re not alone. These terms can sound mysterious, even interchangeable. But while they do overlap, each one has a specific meaning and history. Let’s break it down in plain language.
An orchestra is a group of musicians who play instruments together—typically including strings (like violins and cellos), woodwinds (like flutes and clarinets), brass (like trumpets and horns), and percussion (like timpani or snare drum).
So when you see the word “orchestra,” it’s describing the ensemble—the actual group of people making the music.
In all these cases, “orchestra” is the umbrella term for the ensemble itself.
A symphony is a type of music—a large, usually multi-movement work composed for orchestra. Think of it as a musical story told in several chapters.
When an ensemble calls itself a symphony orchestra, it often means that it specializes in performing symphonies and other big works written for full orchestra.
These groups are orchestras that regularly perform symphonies—pieces by composers like Beethoven, Brahms, or Tchaikovsky.
Often, the terms are combined as a signal that the group is orchestral in nature, performing music including (but not limited to) symphonies.
For many of these groups, the organizations interchange going by Symphony alone and Symphony Orchestra. Take the Redlands Symphony, for example. We refer to ourselves as the "Redlands Symphony," but formally we are the "Redlands Symphony Orchestra." Think of it like a nickname.
💡 In short:
Here’s where things get a little quirky.
Philharmonic and symphony orchestra mean the same thing. Both are full-sized orchestras, often performing the same types of music.
The word “philharmonic” comes from Greek roots meaning “loving harmony” or “loving music.” It’s basically a poetic synonym for “symphonic.”
But here’s the catch: the word “philharmonic” doesn’t tell you anything different about the music. It’s just part of the group’s name—often chosen for historical or branding reasons.
These are all top-tier orchestras, just like symphony orchestras. The name is mostly a matter of tradition and identity.
Great question! Sometimes, a city has more than one major orchestra, and different names help distinguish between them.
For example, in Los Angeles, you’ll find both the Los Angeles Philharmonic and other regional orchestras like the Pasadena Symphony.
These groups might have different missions, styles, or funding sources—but the names don’t necessarily reflect those differences.
Here are a few more orchestra-related terms you might run into:
So whether you’re listening to the New York Philharmonic, the London Symphony, or just your local orchestra downtown—you’re experiencing the same beautiful tradition of orchestral music.
Next time you’re reading a program or buying tickets, you’ll know exactly what you’re getting—and maybe even impress a friend with your insider knowledge!
🎧 Curious what a symphony sounds like?
Come to the Symphony Orchestra in your own backyard! View the Redlands Symphony's current season here.
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