On October 1st, 1957, officials of the city of Tel Aviv and the State of Israel formally opened the Frederic R. Mann Auditorium. Many of the same difficulties that characterized the first decade of the State had to be overcome over the four years the hall was under construction, such having to import materials and experts from abroad, and, especially, obtaining the necessary financing for each and every stage of work. Its chief benefactor was Frederic R. Mann of Philadelphia (1903-1987). The Mann Auditorium is justly considered one of the most sophisticated cultural facilities in the world. The hall, which was built primarily as a home for the Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra, is notable for its size and flexibility. Since its establishment, many top musicians have played on its stage including Leonard Bernstein, Izhak Perlman, Yehudi Menuhin, Daniel Barenboim, Isaac Stern, and Arthur Rubinstein, as have many renowned orchestras from all over the world: the Berlin Philharmonic, the London Symphony, the Philadelphia Philharmonic Orchestra, and more. In addition to musical performances, the Mann Auditorium frequently hosts national and international conferences and assemblies.