The Big Five are five American symphony orchestras that historically led the field in "musical excellence, calibre of musicianship, total contract weeks, weekly basic wages, recording guarantees, and paid vacations".[1] In order of foundation, they are: the New York Philharmonic, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Philadelphia Orchestra and Cleveland Orchestra.[2]
The term gained currency in the late 1950s and for some years afterwards.[3] Although it is still occasionally used, many commentators consider it outdated, particularly with its limited East Coast scope.
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