From January 26 to February 14, 2009, The Philadelphia Orchestra embarks on a tour of Europe and the Canary Islands. Under the leadership of Christoph Eschenbach, the Orchestra visits nine cities in five countries making first visits to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Luxembourg, and Budapest. The three-week tour also includes performances in Barcelona, Lisbon, Madrid, Valencia, and Vienna. Renowned violinist Leonidas Kavakos joins the Orchestra as soloist for eight of the tour's concerts.

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania provides lead support for the 2009 Tour of Europe and the Canary Islands.