Under the artistic direction of world-famous conductor Yury Temirkanov, the St Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra represents the finest in orchestral music. The Bolshoy Zal on pl Iskusstv is the venue for a full program of symphonic performances, while the nearby Maly Zal hosts smaller ensembles. Both venues are used for numerous music festivals, including the superb Early Music Festival. The philharmonic is closed in July and August.