American orchestra founded in 1900; it was first conducted by Fritz Scheel. Under Leopold Stokowski (1912-41) it became one of the world's leading orchestras and was widely known through broadcasts and recordings; tours and outdoor summer seasons began in the 1930s. Subsequent conductors include Ormandy (1938-80) and Muti (1980-92). Its homes are the Academy of Music (opened 1857, cap. 2900) and the summer festivals at Mann Music Center and Saratoga (NY).
