Is a philharmonic the same thing? Essentially, a philharmonic and a symphony are the same, the only true difference is the origin of the name. The words originate from the Greek words. Philharmonic means “love of harmony,” while the word symphony means “an agreement of sound.”

There are 47symphony orchestras in the greater Chicagometro area, including the cities of Chicago, Bolingbrook, Des Plaines, Elgin, Evanston, Hoffman Estates, Naperville, Schaumburg, Skokie, and Gary within the states of Illinois and Indiana.

Students and community members are invited to bring their instruments and collaborate with Chicago Philharmonic musicians in rehearsing and performing free concerts for members of the community and the general public.

Chicago Philharmonic Summer Internship The internship includes mentorship and training in areas of arts administration such as marketing, development, operations, and community engagement, and includes a musical performance element guided by Chicago Philharmonic musicians.