The Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra is an orchestra based in Helsinki, Finland. Its primary concert venue is the Helsinki Music Centre.
In 1882, with the backing of two wealthy businessmen, Robert Kajanus founded the orchestra as the Helsinki Orchestral Society and served as its chief conductor for 50 years. It was the first permanent orchestra in the Nordic countries. In 1914, it merged with its rival ensemble, the Helsinki Symphony Orchestra, and acquired its present name. Until 1962, it also...