Symphony vs. Philharmonic

Definition/History

A symphony orchestra is a group of musicians (orchestra) that play symphonies. Wouldn't a philharmonic orchestra be an orchestra that plays philharmonics? Sounds reasonable to me... except for the small problem that there is no such thing as a philharmonic.

The first use of 'philharmonic' (in an English context) was in London in 1813. An organisation was founded called the Philharmonic Society. The word 'philharmonic' translates to 'music lover'. The sources I've found say this was taken from the French 'philharmonoque', but I think it is more likely that the word was taken right from the Greek. Greek is much more fashionable than French - especially if you're living in London in 1813*.

Anyway, the first Philharmonic Orchestra was established in London in 1895. The current London Philharmonic was established in 1932, the London Symphony was established in 1940. My guess is, whoever got to the name they wanted first - won. (This avoids having names like "The Other London Symphony Orchestra".)

I'm sure if you asked a member of the LSO or the LPO, they could tell you all sorts of jokes on how to distinguish a philharmonic from a symphony orchestra. But in practical application, there really is no difference. They both love music, and they both play symphonies.

Remember

A symphonic orchestra and a philharmonic orchestra are really the same thing.

* There was a big ancient civilization revival right about then. People were digging up bits of antiquity from Greek and Roman sites and hauling them home. France was fashionable then as well, but in a tarnished, scandalous sort of way. It was not as popular in the sort of upper crusty circles likely to establish an arts society. England fought with France a bunch... I don't recall any English/Ancient Greek battles...

In Ljubljana, Slovenia (which was then known as Laibach and was in the Austrian Empire) the Academia Philharmonicorum was founded in 1701.
The original members were all professional musicians, though their by-laws were amended to admit amateurs who were capable of making a contribution, and they gave regular performances.