“Director Karl Middleman allows the fun to spill over into the concerts, and his period instrument players make quite a raucous, joyous noise.”

Philadelphia City Paper Choice Awards

“Karl Middleman is a musician with fiercely scrupulous musical standards and the orchestra which he has brought together offers a thrilling display of energy… This was concertizing that is purposeful, vivid and hugely satisfying.”

Ralph Collier, The Turkish Times

“Karl Middleman, and his new period instrument group Philadelphia Classical Symphony, managed to produce an event that was consistently entertaining and gimmick free…”

Peter Burwasser, PhiladelphiaCity Paper

“I wish Beethoven could have been there. He would have been the first to leap to his feet for those standing ovations.”

Prof. Owen Jander, Beethoven scholar

“What a wonderful and important day this was, not only for my family but for Philadelphia… You have a very special and unique talent for keeping the interest of your young audience, and for introducing musical ideas to the children so well.”

Philip Maneval, Manager, Philadelphia Chamber Music Society

“Conductor Karl Middleman’s forces preserved the exuberance of a work that seems to know no limits of imagination… The orchestra attacked the music with the gusto that gave an edge to almost every scene.”

Daniel Webster, The Philadelphia Inquirer