a large orchestra; can perform symphonies
"we heard the Vienna symphony"
A full-size symphony orchestra.
"The city's annual gala featured a performance by the renowned philharmonic, whose strings swelled to fill the concert hall."
devoted to or appreciative of music
"the most philharmonic ear is at times deeply affected by a simple air"
appreciative of music, but especially to its performance
"The philharmonic audience gave a standing ovation when the conductor led the orchestra through their most challenging movements."