Uploaded December 2025 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Maestro Muti made waves when he arrived in Philadelphia in 1980—for his exceptional artistry and, of course, for his hair. That magnificent mane had people talking about The Philadelphia Orchestra’s new music director all throughout the city. While it may have been his hair that brought new audiences to the Academy of Music, it was always the music that made them stay.
Witness to History is an oral history series in celebration of The Philadelphia Orchestra’s 125th anniversary and the upcoming 25th anniversary of the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. Hear personal stories from the artists, leaders, and community members who helped to shape the ensemble’s legacy and paved the way for a bold future. Visit philorch.org/125years for more.
Courtesy of riccardomutimusic.com
Maestro Muti made waves when he arrived in Philadelphia in 1980—for his exceptional artistry and, of course, for his hair. That magnificent mane had people talking about The Philadelphia Orchestra’s new music director all throughout the city. While it may have been his hair that brought new audiences to the Academy of Music, it was always the music that made them stay.
Witness to History is an oral history series in celebration of The Philadelphia Orchestra’s 125th anniversary and the upcoming 25th anniversary of the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. Hear personal stories from the artists, leaders, and community members who helped to shape the ensemble’s legacy and paved the way for a bold future. Visit philorch.org/125years for more.
Courtesy of riccardomutimusic.com
