Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra & Chorale is based in the San Francisco Bay Area and is one of America’s premier ensembles dedicated to historically rooted performance of Baroque, Classical, and early Romantic music.
Founded in 1981 by harpsichordist and educator Laurette Goldberg, Philharmonia has earned widespread acclaim for its vibrant, period-authentic interpretations using historical instruments and techniques. It was led by Nicholas McGegan for 35 years, and Richard Egarr since 2020. In 2026, Peter Whelan will become the fourth Music Director in the company’s 45-year history.
Among the most recorded orchestras in the world, Philharmonia boasts a discography of nearly 50 recordings, including a coveted archival performance of mezzo-soprano Lorraine Hunt Lieberson in Berlioz’s Les Nuits D’été, and a GRAMMY®-nominated recording of Haydn symphonies. In 2020, Philharmonia released three groundbreaking recordings: a full collection of commissioned works by Pulitzer Prize winner Caroline Shaw, a selection of arias sung by rising star contralto Avery Amereau, and Handel’s Saul with countertenor Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen. The ensemble’s reach extends across the globe through acclaimed tours, and collaborations with some of the world’s leading artists.
Philharmonia is committed to bringing the music of the past to life with energy and relevance for today’s audiences. Through its Bay Area subscription series, groundbreaking programs like SESSIONS and Jews & Music, and robust education and community engagement efforts, Philharmonia offers both depth and innovation. Anchored by a world-class chorale and a roster of musicians who teach and perform internationally, Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra & Chorale continues to set the standard for historically informed performance in the 21st century.
