Philadelphia, December 27, 2007 — The Philadelphia Orchestra and Music Director Christoph Eschenbach will host an evening of eclectic performances on Saturday, January 26, 2008, to celebrate the 151st anniversary of the Academy of Music. Quintessential American singer, songwriter, composer and performer Billy Joel headlines in his first appearance with a major orchestra. Emerging artists Dísella Làrusdóttir, soprano, and Conrad Tao, piano, showcase stellar classical repertoire, and Blue Man Group show their colors in an original work with the Orchestra. MSNBC’s Chris Matthews hosts this special night, supported by main underwriter Blank Rome LLP. The Academy Ball immediately follows at the Park Hyatt at the Bellevue. MORE