Philharmonic Society of Corfu

The Philharmonic Society of Corfu (Greek: Φιλαρμονική Εταιρεία Κερκύρας, Philharmonice Ɛtaerɛia Cɛrcyras, pronounced [filarmoɲiˈci eteˈri.a cerˈciras]), or Old Philharmonic (Παλαιά Φιλαρμονική) -to be distinguished from the other 17 bands on the island-, is a widely known community music band in Corfu, Greece.

The tuition of the latter category found its artistic expression through the wind band of the philharmonic, an ensemble, which became very popular by developing into an integral part of public and religious festivities.

This misunderstanding, however, became gradually a reality, especially after the Second World War, mainly because of the financial problems that a non-governmental institution like PSC came across.

Nonetheless, it was only in 1907, as well as during the 1930s when the symphonic orchestra of the society performed in the Municipal Theatre of Corfu, to much critical acclaim.

Moreover, the Museum honours Nikolaos Halikiopoulos Mantzaros (1795–1872), the Society's first artistic director (1841–1872), composer –among others– of the Greek national anthem, well-known music teacher and contrapuntist, as well as inspirer of a whole generation of composers that shaped the music of Ionian Islands, and not only, during the 19th century.