The founding stage of the Philharmonic Society of León (1907-1914)

Abstract

Originally called Sociedad de Conciertos de León, the Leon Philharmonic Society shared many characteristics with other analogous Spanish societies, although from the very beginning it stood out from the rest for its educational and philanthropic aim. It was born with the task of bringing classical music and outstanding performers within the reach of the Leon citizenry. To that purpose, it became a founder member of the Union de Sociedades Filarmónicas (Union of Philharmonic Societies). The many advantageous conditions obtained from that alliance made it possible for the city to gain access to a large part of the classical-romantic repertoire, and to have the chance to listen to great musicians, both from Spain and abroad. Among these, the Orquesta Sinfónica de Madrid clearly stands out. The circumstances surrounding World War I implied a dramatic descent in the number of concerts, so this paper will just focus on the first stage of the activities of the Leonese association.