The Boston Philharmonic Orchestra

This orchestra is unfortunately overshadowed by Boston Symphony Orchestra and I strongly believe they are underrated orchestra.
This is no amateur community orchestra. They are solid professional orchestra. I was stunned by how good they were when I first time saw them. The piece they performed when I saw was «Concerto for Orchestra» by Bela Bartok. which was no «walk in the park». And their performance was spectacular.
I have personally met Boston Phil’s conductor/​director, Benjamin Zander when I was attending grad school. He is not snobby but very passionate about his work and most importantly — extremely friendly. He often kindly explain the background of the piece before the performance which really helps audience understand the piece better. Because of this very friendly, intimate atmosphere, it wouldn’t feel so uptight. Rather feel very relaxing.
Tickets are cheaper than BSO and you can still enjoy just as good performance as BSO.
They change the venue between Sander Theatre in Harvard sq and Jordan Hall in New England Conservatory. Make sure to check the venue before heading out.