Yuri Temirkanov, the orchestra's artistic director, announced the renovation at a press conference held April 12. Igor Naumov, director of the Shostakovich Hall, said the reconstruction will focus on aesthetics and acoustics, according to the Times.

"New sound engineering equipment will be installed, and we are now consulting acoustic engineers. We will be updating the lighting system, as well as heating, electricity and water pipes." The reconstruction is funded by the European Bank of Reconstruction and Development and the Russian government.

The Philharmonic's local concerts have been reduced, but Temirkanov said the orchestra will be touring more extensively both in Russia and abroad during the renovation. For the first time in years the ensemble will tour towns in Siberia.

The St. Petersburg Philharmonic has seen high management turnover recently, according to the Times, with three directors over the past ten years being forced to resign before their tenures were complete. The orchestra's executive director, Vladimir Gronsky, was recently fired by Temirkanov after less than a year.