Since its first concert in 1842, the Philharmonic has played a leading role in American musical life. Founded by a group of local musicians, the New York Philharmonic is by far the oldest symphony orchestra in the United States, and one of the oldest in the world. Alan Gilbert began his tenure as Music Director in September 2009, the latest in a distinguished line of musical giants was appointed Music Director in 1958 and given the lifetime title of Laureate Conductor in 1969. less