Since the first performance in 1881, this orchestra has become one of the world's greatest. In addition to performances of traditional classical music, the group has also been committed to commissioning and performing new work. Past guests have included Itzhak Perlman and Kathleen Battle. The performance season is from October through April at Symphony Hall. In July and August, performances at the outdoor Tanglewood Music Center in the Berkshire Mountains are well worth the beautiful three-hour drive west from Boston.