The history begins in the Small Hall of an old mansion on Nevsky Prospect, known in Petersburg as the Engelhardt House. In the early 19th century, the Petersburg Philharmonic Society held open concerts here, attracting outstanding European and domestic musicians.

This place quickly became the center of cultural life in the capital. The building, originally designed by B. Rastrelli, was reconstructed by architect P.P. Zhako in the late classical style. In 1832, a new concert hall with 400 seats and magnificent acoustics was established here, where musical evenings of the Noble Assembly and masquerades took place. The popularity of this place is reflected in M.Y. Lermontov's work "Masquerade" (1835): "...after all, today is a holiday, and surely there is a masquerade at Engelhardt's...".

In 1839, architect P.P. Zhako built a building for the Noble Assembly on Arts Square, preserving the facade designed by K.I. Rossi.

Inside the building is a luxurious staircase leading to a huge snow-white hall with columns and crystal chandeliers, distinguished by first-class acoustics and accommodating 1500 people. This is the Great Hall of the philharmonic.

The solemn opening of the Petrograd Philharmonic took place on June 12, 1921, with a symphonic concert dedicated to the works of P.I. Tchaikovsky, conducted by the talented conductor and first director of the philharmonic, E. Cooper.

In 1949, the Small Chamber Hall named after M.I. Glinka joined the philharmonic. Here, ancient traditions continue: new European music is performed, and musical competitions and festivals are held.