Lithuanian National Philharmonic Society: Out of love for music

In the heart of Vilnius’ historic Old Town, tradition meets world-class artistry as the Lithuanian National Philharmonic Society brings together the country’s finest musical talents and welcomes celebrated international performers. With a history spanning over eight decades, the striking building remains a vibrant hub for orchestral excellence, chamber music, and internationally acclaimed festivals.

Founded in 1940, the Lithuanian National Philharmonic Society holds a special place in the country’s cultural history. Through decades, the society has gathered Lithuania’s most accomplished music forces under its roof. In 1909, Vilnius-born Jascha Heifetz – one of the most prominent violinists of the 20th century – gave his debut performance here, setting the standard for the musical legacy that followed.

“It’s incredible how clearly the birth, growth and maturity of large music institutions reflect the structure of our planet,” says Rūta Prusevičienė, director. “The most prominent Lithuanian orchestras and chamber ensembles represented by the National Philharmonic Society of Lithuania were created and nurtured as complex ecosystems that can provide long-term artistic, cultural, creative and social benefits. Over time, the orchestras became a nourishing medium for the modern Lithuanian school of composition, a link between the academic and scientific community in the fields of performing art and musicology, a creator of various forms of support and patronage, and leaders of cultural diplomacy and artistic innovation.”

A proud legacy, a vibrant present

Today, Lithuania’s largest concert organisation – now in its 84th season – serves as the proud home of the Lithuanian National Symphony Orchestra, led by the internationally acclaimed maestro Modestas Pitrėnas. The orchestra maintains a strong artistic partnership with its principal guest conductor, French maestro Victorien Vanoosten, and fosters close professional relationships with musicians and institutions worldwide.
Also resident at the Lithuanian National Philharmonic Society is the Lithuanian Chamber Orchestra, renowned for its rich history. Its artistic director, the celebrated violin virtuoso Sergej Krylov, is a regular presence on the stages of Europe, the Americas, and Asia. The society is also home to several distinguished chamber groups: Musica Humana, the Vilnius String Quartet, and the Čiurlionis Quartet – each of which performs extensively both in Lithuania and internationally.

“We have already demonstrated and proven to the world the skill of our ensembles, our discerning audiences, and the perfect acoustics of our concert hall. Our international achievements contribute to the positive image of Lithuania,” says Prusevičienė.

A global stage in Vilnius

Every season, the philharmonic hosts over 200 concerts, spanning a broad range of genres to satisfy diverse musical tastes. Each concert is a one-of-a-kind experience, rarely repeated.

“Based in one of the most beautiful buildings in the historic Old Town of Vilnius, we have the perfect setting for a wide range of musical experiences,” says Prusevičienė. “Our orchestral concerts take place in the 700-seat Concert Hall, which was renovated a few years ago and boasts extraordinary acoustics. The smaller Chamber Hall, on the other hand, is perfectly suited for chamber music.”

The stage has welcomed an impressive list of global talent, including American baritone Thomas Hampson, conducting legend Christoph Eschenbach, acclaimed conductor Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla, mezzo-soprano Violeta Urmanavičiūtė-Urmana, tenor Edgaras Montvidas, pianists Lucas and Arthur Jussen, the Camerata Salzburg, and the Luxembourg Philharmonic Orchestra.

Experience the magic live or online

A highlight for music lovers is the festivals organised by the society; the annual Vilnius Festival and the biannual Vilnius Piano Festival. Since its founding in 1997, the Vilnius Festival has become one of Lithuania’s premier cultural events, presenting both classic and contemporary works, including premières and commissioned pieces in collaboration with world-renowned artists and European festivals.

The society’s concert season typically runs from September to May in Vilnius, and during the summer months in other locations. But, even if you are not in Lithuania, you can still experience the magic. The Digital Philharmonic (www.nationalphilharmonic.tv), launched in 2017, offers a growing library of over 200 high-quality concert recordings available online. Simply choose a performance, click, and let the music transport you.

Based in one of the most beautiful buildings in the historic Old Town of Vilnius, the Lithuanian National Philharmonic Society provides the perfect setting for magical musical experiences.

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