The Erie Philharmonic is coming off a busy weekend—performing "Rhapsody in Blue" concerts. But you may be surprised on what all the Erie Philharmonic does.

It's been around for more than 100 years and it's the subject of this week's Giving You the Business Report, sponsored by the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership.

The sounds of an orchestra made up of musicians who come from all over the region, vying for a spot to play in an Erie Philharmonic performance.

"It's all professional. It's top-flight. Everybody has to audition to get in," said Tom Brooks, Choral Director. 

Starting in 1913 with 50 players, the Erie Philharmonic has grown immensely over decades.

Close to 150 voices from the area make up the Chorus.

Tom Brooks is the Choral Director and also serves as the Philharmonic's Interim Executive Director. With a background as a professional singer, conductor, and educator across the U.S., Brooks says the
repertoire—determines the amount of the performers.

Music for the shows is chosen over months, through an effort including the Philharmonic Maestro, Daniel Meyer, and other staff.

Video-themed performances have recently been incorporated as the musicians play live, movie soundtracks.

The current Erie Philharmonic season runs through September to May, but in March of this year, a new season will be revealed, and the hope is that the Erie Philharmonic will be doing more than just performances.

"It's a new endeavor for us. We would like to start doing recordings for commercial use," said Brooks. 

The Orchestra will also continue sharing musical talents in the community, from Summer Concert Series to Youth Education.

"We actually run now an orchestra and education program from grade schools all the way up through high school," said Brooks. 

There is also a Youth Choir.

"We teach through that," said Brooks. "How to sing. How to use your voice. What to do."

Plus, the Philharmonic has a residency in school program—where members go into school buildings for up to 60 days.

The overall organization is the largest tenant inside downtown Erie's historic Warner Theatre.

Barry Copple is the Warner's General Operations Manager, and prepares, with his staff, for the 15 yearly Philharmonic concerts.

"It means a lot to this building, not only from a revenue standpoint, but to the community as well," said Copple. 

Energizing audiences and allowing the players to feel the excitement—sharing a love of music.

From pops, to symphonic, and so much variety in the Philharmonic—it is an experience.

If you want to check out programs or upcoming performances, visit the Erie Philharmonic's website.