Discover how live music creates lasting connections.
There’s an irreplaceable magic in live performance — a visceral energy that can only be felt when artists and audience share the same space. Here, each performance is more than just a concert; it’s a moment of profound connection, where extraordinary musicians transform notes on a page into living, breathing art.
Rooted in Chicago’s rich cultural landscape, each program invites you to be more than a listener. In Orchestra Hall, you become part of the creative dialogue, sharing in those transcendent moments when music moves beyond sound to stir the spirit. Feel the rush of a soaring crescendo, the hush of a perfectly placed silence and the exhilaration of live music that surrounds you.
Your seat awaits.
Zell
Music Director Designate Klaus Mäkelä
Music Director Emeritus for Life
2025/26
CSO Artist-in-Residence Joyce DiDonato
Riccardo Muti
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Teng Li
Klaus Mäkelä
Chicago Symphony Orchestra Classical
Delight in glistening performances that feature enchanting adventures, uplifting choral works and beloved symphonies. From groundbreaking premieres to iconic concertos starring classical music’s biggest names, journey through distant lands and explore musical reflections of American history and ideals.
SEPTEMBER
Season Opening with Szeps-Znaider
18 THU C | C2 7:30
19 FRI A | A1 1:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Nikolaj Szeps-Znaider conductor and violin
Teng Li viola
MOZART Sinfonia concertante, K. 364
ELGAR Symphony No. 2
One of the most heartfelt musical dialogues ever written, Mozart’s Sinfonia concertante for violin and viola shares a program with Elgar’s stately, visionary Second Symphony.
Ravel Piano Concertos & Suite from Carmen
25 THU A | A1 7:30
26 FRI A | A2 1:30
27 SAT A | A1 7:30
28 SUN A | A1 3:00
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Mikko Franck conductor
Alice Sara Ott piano
PÉPIN Les Eaux célestes
RAVEL Piano Concerto for the Left Hand
RAVEL Piano Concerto in G Major
BIZET Carmen Suite
Alice Sara Ott pairs Ravel’s wildly original piano concertos in rare side-by-side performances. Framing the program are Bizet’s fiery Carmen Suite and Camille Pépin’s shimmering Celestial Waters.
Alice Sara Ott
Nikolaj Szeps-Znaider
OCTOBER
Piccolo Play & Adagio for Strings
3 FRI A | A2 1:30
4 SAT B | B1 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Daniela Candillari conductor
Jennifer Gunn piccolo
Giulia Semenzato soprano
Jennifer Johnson Cano mezzo-soprano
SIMON Fate Now Conquers
BARBER Adagio for Strings
MUSGRAVE Piccolo Play
PERGOLESI Stabat Mater
Pergolesi’s sacred masterpiece is filled with spine-tingling music on the nature of grief, hope and healing. These emotions also course through works by Barber and Carlos Simon.
Hadelich, Dvořák & Brahms 2
9 THU B | B2 7:30
10 FRI WHEATON A 7:30 edman memorial chapel
11 SAT C | C1 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Philippe Jordan conductor
Augustin Hadelich violin
KODÁLY Dances of Galánta
DVOŘÁK Violin Concerto
BRAHMS Symphony No. 2
Dvořák’s soulful Violin Concerto is a perfect vehicle for Augustin Hadelich, who “conveys the music’s rousing energy” (The New York Times). Brahms’ rustic Second Symphony closes the program.
Jennifer Gunn
Mäkelä Conducts Symphonie fantastique
16 THU A | A2 7:30
17 FRI B | B2 7:30
18 SAT B | B2 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Klaus Mäkelä conductor Antoine Tamestit viola
BERLIOZ Harold in Italy
BERLIOZ Symphonie fantastique
Klaus Mäkelä leads Symphonie fantastique, Berlioz’s thriller packed with depictions of witchcraft, obsession and murder. Berlioz’s Harold in Italy features viola virtuoso Antoine Tamestit.
The Soldier’s Tale
23 THU C | C1 7:30
24 FRI A | A1 1:30
25 SAT C | C2 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Stefan Asbury conductor
Augustin Hadelich
Steve Scott director
STRAVINSKY Fanfare for a New Theatre
STRAVINSKY Septet
STRAVINSKY Octet
STRAVINSKY The Soldier’s Tale
Step into the engrossing world of Stravinsky’s The Soldier’s Tale, the story of a soldier-fiddler who makes a Faustian pact with the devil, in this semi-staged production featuring actors from The Goodman. Other Stravinsky delights include the neoclassical Octet. Stravinsky’s The Soldier’s Tale is produced in association with Goodman Theatre.
Muti Conducts
Strauss, Hindemith & Dvořák 9
30 THU B | B1 7:30
31 FRI A | A2 1:30
NOV 1 SAT A | A2 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Riccardo Muti conductor
J. STRAUSS JR. Overture to The Gypsy Baron
HINDEMITH Symphony, Mathis der Maler
DVOŘÁK Symphony No. 9
(From the New World)
Music Director Emeritus for Life Riccardo Muti returns with Dvořák’s New World Symphony, whose glorious melodies celebrate American folk music and spirituals, alongside Hindemith’s majestic Mathis der Maler
NOVEMBER
Muti & Sáinz-Villegas
6 THU C | C2 7:30
7 FRI A | A1 1:30
8 SAT C | C2 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Riccardo Muti conductor
Pablo Sáinz-Villegas guitar
STRAVINSKY Divertimento, Suite from The Fairy’s Kiss
RODRIGO Concierto de Aranjuez
BRAHMS Symphony No. 4
Pablo Sáinz-Villegas takes on the most famous guitar concerto of all. Riccardo Muti leads Brahms’ Fourth Symphony — a blend of warmth and poignant anguish, capped with a tempest of a finale.
Chen Leads The Four Seasons
13 THU B | B2 7:30
14 FRI B | B2 7:30
15 SAT A | A1 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Robert Chen leader and violin
MOZART Divertimento in B-flat Major, K. 137
BEETHOVEN (orch. Mahler) String Quartet No. 11
VIVALDI The Four Seasons
Concertmaster Robert Chen takes center stage in Vivaldi’s landmark Four Seasons and leads Mahler’s orchestral rendering of Beethoven’s Serioso Quartet and Mozart’s exquisitely crafted Divertimento in B-flat Major.
Honeck Conducts
Mozart Requiem
20 THU A | A1 7:30
21 FRI B | B1 7:30
22 SAT B | B2 7:30
23 SUN A | A2 3:00
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Manfred Honeck conductor
Jeanine De Bique soprano
Avery Amereau mezzo-soprano
Ben Bliss tenor
Stephano Park bass
Chicago Symphony Chorus
Donald Palumbo chorus director
BEETHOVEN Coriolan Overture
HAYDN Symphony No. 93
MOZART Requiem
Mozart’s Requiem was his great send-off to the world. In this profoundly evocative program, Manfred Honeck reimagines the masterpiece as it may have been heard at the composer’s own funeral, interwoven with Gregorian chant and additional choral works by Mozart.
Pablo Sáinz-Villegas
zell music director designate Klaus Mäkelä
Energy. Vision. Artistry.
Klaus Mäkelä brings all three qualities to the 2025/26 Season. Mäkelä’s meteoric rise in the classical music world stems not only from his innovative programming and electrifying presence on the podium, but also from his ability to forge a profound connection with musicians.
Witness firsthand the bond he’s already creating with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in four dynamic programs this season.
Save 15% when you create your own subscription of three or more programs featuring Klaus Mäkelä.
Mäkelä Conducts
Symphonie fantastique
OCT 16-18
Klaus Mäkelä & Yunchan Lim
DEC 18-20
Mäkelä Conducts
Ein Heldenleben
FEB 19 -21
Mäkelä Conducts
The Rite of Spring MAR 5-6
Petr Popelka
DECEMBER
Till Eulenspiegel & Bullock Sings Aucoin
4 THU A | A2 7:30
5 FRI A | A1 1:30
6 SAT A | A2 7:30
7 SUN A | A1 3:00
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Petr Popelka conductor
Julia Bullock soprano
BRAHMS Symphony No. 3
AUCOIN Song of the Reappeared world premiere, cso commission
R. STRAUSS Till Eulenspiegel’s Merry Pranks
Richard Strauss’ humorous and charming Till Eulenspiegel and Brahms’ glorious Third Symphony frame the world premiere of Matthew Aucoin’s song cycle written for the captivating soprano Julia Bullock.
Noseda Conducts
Debussy & Prokofiev 4
11 THU B | B1 7:30
12 FRI A | A2 1:30
13 SAT B | B1 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Gianandrea Noseda conductor
James Ehnes violin
DEBUSSY Prelude to The Afternoon of a Faun
BRITTEN Violin Concerto
PROKOFIEV Symphony No. 4
A work of dark, searching grandeur, Prokofiev’s Fourth Symphony gathers sumptuous themes from his ballet music. Britten’s Violin Concerto, a searing response to the Spanish Civil War, features James Ehnes.
Klaus Mäkelä & Yunchan Lim
18 THU C | C1 7:30
19 FRI A | A1 1:30
20 SAT C | C1 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Klaus Mäkelä conductor
Yunchan Lim piano
CHIN subito con forza
SCHUMANN Piano Concerto
WIDMANN Con brio
BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 7
Klaus Mäkelä conducts Beethoven’s buoyant Seventh Symphony alongside contemporary pieces inspired by the composer. The phenomenal Yunchan Lim presents Robert Schumann’s heartfelt Piano Concerto.
Julia Bullock
Gianandrea Noseda
Yunchan Lim
Esa-Pekka Salonen
JANUARY
Salonen, Trifonov & Beethoven
29 THU B | B1 7:30
30 FRI B | B1 7:30
31 SAT B | B1 7:30
FEB 1 SUN A | A2 3:00
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Esa-Pekka Salonen conductor
Daniil Trifonov piano
BEETHOVEN Piano Concerto No. 2
BRUCKNER Symphony No. 4 (Romantic)
Bruckner’s Romantic Symphony evokes a storybook landscape of peaks and valleys, forest dances and hymns of thanksgiving.
Chicago favorite Daniil Trifonov takes on Beethoven’s Second Piano Concerto.
FEBRUARY
Salonen Conducts
La mer
5 THU A | A1 7:30
6 FRI A | A2 1:30
7 SAT A | A2 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Esa-Pekka Salonen conductor
Gabriel Cabezas cello
DEBUSSY Images
SMITH Lost Coast
DEBUSSY La mer
Embark on a thrilling voyage over two striking visions of the ocean in Debussy’s ravishing La mer and Gabriella Smith’s Lost Coast, inspired by the rugged Northern California coastline.
Jaap van Zweden, Himari & Mozart
Jupiter
12 THU C | C2 7:30
13 FRI WHEATON A 7:30 edman memorial chapel
14 SAT C | C2 7:30
15 SUN A | A1 3:00
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Jaap van Zweden conductor
Himari violin
THOMPSON To See the Sky
BRUCH Violin Concerto No. 1
MOZART Symphony No. 41 (Jupiter)
Sensational teen Himari illuminates
Bruch’s First Violin Concerto in her CSO subscription debut. Mozart’s electrifying Jupiter Symphony caps the program.
Mäkelä Conducts Ein Heldenleben
19 THU B | B2 7:30
20 FRI B | B1 7:30
21 SAT A | A1 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Klaus Mäkelä conductor
SIBELIUS Lemminkäinen
R. STRAUSS Ein Heldenleben
Richard Strauss portrays himself as the central character of his extravagant showpiece A Hero’s Life. Klaus Mäkelä pairs the work with Sibelius’ Lemminkäinen, a symphonic portrait of Finland’s folk hero.
Jaap van Zweden
MARCH
Jakub Hrůša & Leif Ove Andsnes
12 THU A | A2 7:30
13 FRI A | A2 1:30
14 SAT B | B2 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Jakub Hrůša conductor
Leif Ove Andsnes piano
BEETHOVEN Piano Concerto No. 3
SCHUMANN Symphony No. 1 (Spring)
SMETANA Selections from The Bartered Bride
Czech conductor Jakub Hrůša leads selections from Smetana’s The Bartered Bride, an opera full of soaring tunes and folkloric color. Leif Ove Andsnes scales
Beethoven’s stormy Third Piano Concerto.
An Opera Night with Riccardo Muti
19 THU C | C1 7:30
20 FRI B | B2 7:30
21 SAT C | C1 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Riccardo Muti conductor
Lidia Fridman soprano
Francesco Meli tenor
Chicago Symphony Chorus
Donald Palumbo chorus director
VERDI Sinfonia to La battaglia di Legnano
VERDI Prelude to I Masnadieri
klaus mäkelä
GIORDANO Amor ti vieta from Fedora
CATALANI Ebben?...Ne andrò lontana from La Wally
VERDI O Signore, dal tetto natio from I Lombardi
VERDI Patria oppressa from Macbeth
VERDI Overture to Nabucco
VERDI Va, pensiero from Nabucco
PUCCINI Intermezzo from Manon Lescaut
PUCCINI Act IV from Manon Lescaut
Revel in an enthralling selection of treasured Italian opera repertoire, anchored by Verdi’s passion-filled works. Riccardo Muti leads a handpicked lineup of international singers with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Chorus.
Muti Conducts Tchaikovsky & Rota
THU A | A1 7:30
WHEATON A 7:30
edman memorial chapel
B | B1 7:30
SUN A | A2 3:00
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Riccardo Muti conductor
TCHAIKOVSKY Symphony No. 3 (Polish)
Music from The Leopard Suite from The Godfather
Riccardo Muti pairs Tchaikovsky’s elegant Symphony with the evocative music of Nino Rota, celebrated for his iconic film scores and compositions that seamlessly blend drama, lyricism and charm.
Jakub
Hrůša
music director emeritus for life Riccardo Muti
Mastery. Power. Legacy.
Riccardo Muti’s legendary relationship with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra continues. He returns to Chicago for four engagements throughout the 2025/26 Season, including a program of opera selections, demonstrating an inspired command of this repertoire that has earned him a place among the world’s greatest conductors, and a program featuring his personal selections from Nino Rota’s legendary film scores.
Save 15% when you create your own subscription of three or more programs featuring Riccardo Muti.
Muti Conducts Strauss, Hindemith & Dvořák 9
OCT 30-NOV 1
Muti & Sáinz-Villegas NOV 6-8
An Opera Night with Riccardo Muti MAR 19-21
Muti Conducts Tchaikovsky & Rota MAR 26-29
APRIL
Sibelius 2 & Tüür
Accordion Concerto
2 THU C | C1 7:30
3 FRI A | A1 1:30
4 SAT A | A1 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Paavo Järvi conductor
Ksenija Sidorova accordion
BRAHMS Variations on a Theme by Haydn
TÜÜR Prophecy
SIBELIUS Symphony No. 2
With its unforgettable, triumphant finale, Sibelius’ Second Symphony stands as an emblem of Finland’s nationalist spirit. Brahms’ gloriously lyrical tribute to Haydn and an accordion concerto by Erkki-Sven Tüür open the program.
Songs of Love and Farewell
9 THU B | B2 7:30
10 FRI B | B2 7:30
11 SAT C | C2 7:30
12 SUN A | A2 3:00
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Jakub Hrůša conductor
Corinne Winters soprano
JANÁČEK Overture to From the House of the Dead
RACHMANINOV The Isle of the Dead
R. STRAUSS Four Last Songs
WAGNER Prelude and Liebestod from Tristan and Isolde (Orchestral version)
Why are we here, and what comes next? Experience four meditations on mortality and the hereafter by Richard Strauss, Wagner, Rachmaninov and Janáček.
Evgeny Kissin
PRIORITY ACCESS CONCERT*
Evgeny Kissin with the CSO
16 THU C | C2 7:30
18 SAT A | A2 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Andrey Boreyko conductor
Evgeny Kissin piano
RIMSKY-KORSAKOV Russian Easter Overture
SCRIABIN Piano Concerto
RIMSKY-KORSAKOV Piano Concerto
LIADOV Kikimora
PROKOFIEV Piano Concerto No. 1
Evgeny Kissin, “a deeply intuitive and sensitive musician” (The New York Times), joins the CSO in three piano concertos by Prokofiev, Scriabin and Rimsky-Korsakov.
MAY
Canellakis, Tao & Tchaikovsky 5
APR 30 THU A | A2 7:30
1 FRI A | A2 1:30
2 SAT C | C2 7:30
3 SUN A | A1 3:00
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Ksenija Sidorova
Karina Canellakis conductor
Conrad Tao piano
DVOŘÁK Scherzo capriccioso
BARTÓK Piano Concerto No. 3
TCHAIKOVSKY Symphony No. 5
“With desire and passion,” Tchaikovsky wrote on the score of his Fifth Symphony, a work that journeys from despair to soaring triumph. Bartók’s beguiling Third Piano Concerto features soloist Conrad Tao.
*See page 4 for more information.
MAY
DiDonato Performs Neruda Songs
7 THU C | C2 7:30
8 FRI B | B1 7:30
9 SAT B | B2 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Edward Gardner conductor
Joyce DiDonato mezzo-soprano
BARBER First Essay for Orchestra
LIEBERSON Neruda Songs
WALTON Symphony No. 1
2025/26 CSO Artist-in-Residence
Joyce DiDonato sings Peter Lieberson’s heartbreakingly sensuous song cycle set to the poetry of Pablo Neruda. Walton’s tumultuous and alluring First Symphony concludes the program.
Poulenc Gloria & Saint-Saëns Organ Symphony
14 THU B | B1 7:30 15 FRI A | A1 1:30
16 SAT A | A1 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Juraj Valčuha conductor
Erin Morley soprano
Chicago Symphony Chorus
Donald Palumbo chorus director
RAVEL Mother Goose Suite
POULENC Gloria
SAINT-SAËNS Symphony No. 3 (Organ)
Discover an all-French program anchored by Saint-Saëns’ epic Organ Symphony. Ravel’s Mother Goose Suite charms with its tender evocation of childhood, while Poulenc’s Gloria dazzles with wit and radiant energy.
Pekka Kuusisto
Pekka Kuusisto: Time Shifting
21 THU A | A2 7:30
22 FRI A | A2 1:30
23 SAT B | B2 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Pekka Kuusisto conductor and violin
GRIEG Holberg Suite
KREISLER Violin Concerto in C Major (In the Style of Vivaldi)
RAUTAVAARA The Fiddlers
HAYDN Symphony No. 64 (Tempora mutantur)
CLYNE Sound and Fury
Finnish star Pekka Kuusisto explores the theme of time itself. He conducts works by Haydn, Grieg, Rautavaara and former Mead Composer-in-Residence Anna Clyne, and steps out as the soloist in Kreisler’s Violin Concerto.
Brahms, Strauss & Ravel La valse
28 THU B | B2 7:30
29 FRI A | A1 1:30
30 SAT C | C1 7:30
31 SUN A | A2 3:00
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Nikolaj Szeps-Znaider conductor
Martin Helmchen piano
BRAHMS Piano Concerto No. 1
Erin Morley
R. STRAUSS Suite from Der Rosenkavalier
RAVEL La valse
Brahms’ First Piano Concerto awes with its intense passion and unabashedly dramatic piano writing — the ideal showcase for Martin Helmchen. Works by Ravel and Richard Strauss evoke Vienna’s bygone golden age.
JUNE
Alsop Conducts Adams, Copland & Marsalis
4 THU C | C1 7:30
5 FRI A | A2 1:30
6 SAT B | B1 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Marin Alsop conductor
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis
JOHN ADAMS The Rock You Stand On cso co-commission
COPLAND Suite from Appalachian Spring
MARSALIS Liberty (Symphony No. 5) cso co-commission
The CSO joins forces with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra for Liberty (Symphony No. 5), Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Wynton Marsalis’ latest symphonic work. Copland’s Appalachian Spring and a new work by John Adams kick off an all-American celebration.
Gaffigan, Thibaudet & Bernstein
11 THU A | A1 7:30
12 FRI A | A1 1:30
13 SAT A | A2 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
James Gaffigan conductor
Jean-Yves Thibaudet piano
Apostolic Church of God Sanctuary Choir
GERSHWIN (orch. Rose) Overture to Girl Crazy
Selected Spirituals
WEILL (arr. R. R. Bennett) Lady in the Dark, Symphonic Nocturne
BERNSTEIN Symphony No. 2 (The Age of Anxiety)
Leonard Bernstein’s The Age of Anxiety features Jean-Yves Thibaudet performing the extravagant piano part. Sumptuous orchestral highlights from Gershwin and Weill musicals frame a stirring selection of spirituals.
See pages 24-25 for more information.
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and the CSO
Lincoln Portrait & Ellington Harlem
18 THU B | B1 7:30
20 SAT C | C1 7:30
21 SUN A | A1 3:00
Chicago Symphony Orchestra Joshua Weilerstein conductor
MONTGOMERY Banner
MARTINŮ The Rock COPLAND Lincoln Portrait
IVES Three Places in New England ELLINGTON (orch. Henderson & Peress) Harlem
In recognition of America’s 250th anniversary, experience a powerful program featuring Copland’s soaring tribute to Lincoln, musical portraits of New England by Ives and Martinů, and Ellington’s swinging tour of Harlem.
James Gaffigan
Classical Curated Packages
Thursdays at 7:30
A 10-Concert Package
Includes A1+A2
Over the course of 10 Thursday nights, hear renowned soloists, including pianists Leif Ove Andsnes and Jean-Yves Thibaudet, and popular works by Tchaikovsky, Berlioz, Debussy and Brahms.
B 10-Concert Package
Includes B1+B2
Make the CSO a joyous part of your week. In 10 unforgettable concerts, hear iconic works by Debussy, Vivaldi, Brahms, Dvořák, Saint-Saëns, Bruckner and Prokofiev.
A1-2 5-Concert Selection
9/25 A1 Ravel Piano Concertos & Suite from Carmen 11/20 A1 Honeck Conducts Mozart Requiem 2/5 A1 Salonen Conducts La mer 3/26 A1 Muti Conducts Tchaikovsky & Rota 6/11 A1 Gaffigan, Thibaudet & Bernstein
10/16 A2 Mäkelä Conducts Symphonie fantastique 12/4 A2 Till Eulenspiegel & Bullock Sings Aucoin 3/12 A2 Jakub Hrůša & Leif Ove Andsnes 4/30 A2 Canellakis, Tao & Tchaikovsky 5 5/21 A2 Pekka Kuusisto: Time Shifting
10/9 B2 Hadelich, Dvořák & Brahms 2 11/13 B2 Chen Leads The Four Seasons 2/19 B2 Mäkelä Conducts Ein Heldenleben 4/9 B2 Songs of Love and Farewell 5/28 B2 Brahms, Strauss & Ravel La valse
C 10-Concert Package
Includes C1+C2
This Thursday package contains a marvelously varied selection of familiar and rare repertoire, including symphonies by Beethoven, Sibelius, Mozart and Elgar.
C1-2 5-Concert Selection
10/23 C1 The Soldier’s Tale 12/18 C1 Klaus Mäkelä & Yunchan Lim 3/19 C1 An Opera Night with Riccardo Muti 4/2 C1 Sibelius 2 & Tüür Accordion Concerto 6/4 C1 Alsop Conducts Adams, Copland & Marsalis
9/18 C2 Season Opening with Szeps-Znaider 11/6 C2 Muti & Sáinz-Villegas 2/12 C2 Jaap van Zweden, Himari & Mozart Jupiter 4/16 C2 Evgeny Kissin with the CSO 5/7 C2 DiDonato Performs Neruda Songs
Karina Canellakis
Subscribe and save up to 30%
Fridays at 1:30
A 18-Concert Package Includes A1+A2
Enjoy a quintessential CSO experience with this flagship package. In addition to symphonic works by Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Sibelius, Strauss and Copland, this package features many distinctive soloists.
A1-2 9-Concert Selection
The full 18-concert FRI A package offers the greatest savings.
9/19 A1 Season Opening with Szeps-Znaider 10/24 A1 The Soldier’s Tale 11/7 A1 Muti & Sáinz-Villegas
12/5 A1 Till Eulenspiegel & Bullock Sings Aucoin 12/19 A1 Klaus Mäkelä & Yunchan Lim
2/6 A2 Salonen Conducts La mer 3/13 A2 Jakub Hrůša & Leif Ove Andsnes
5/1 A2 Canellakis, Tao & Tchaikovsky 5
5/22 A2 Pekka Kuusisto: Time Shifting
6/5 A2 Alsop Conducts Adams, Copland & Marsalis
Fridays at
7:30
B 8-Concert Package
Includes B1+B2
Eight diverse programs comprise this Friday night package. Highlights include Berlioz’s Symphonie fantastique and Richard Strauss’ Ein Heldenleben, as well as Bruckner’s Romantic Symphony and Vivaldi’s beloved The Four Seasons
B1-2 4-Concert Selection
11/21 B1 Honeck Conducts Mozart Requiem 1/30 B1 Salonen, Trifonov & Beethoven 2/20 B1 Mäkelä Conducts Ein Heldenleben 5/8 B1 DiDonato Performs Neruda Songs
10/17 B2 Mäkelä Conducts Symphonie fantastique 11/14 B2 Chen Leads The Four Seasons 3/20 B2 An Opera Night with Riccardo Muti 4/10 B2 Songs of Love and Farewell
Paavo Järvi
Corinne Winters
Petr Popelka
Classical Curated Packages
Saturdays at 7:30
A 10-Concert Package
Includes A1+A2
From Baroque favorites to newly minted scores, the CSO displays its famous versatility and dramatic range in works by Vivaldi, Dvořák, Sibelius and Saint-Saëns, alongside soloists including Evgeny Kissin and Alice Sara Ott.
B 10-Concert Package
Includes B1+B2
Sample the best of the season’s offerings with this Saturday night package. Hear iconic symphonies, quintessential Americana, Mozart’s Requiem and two of Beethoven’s piano concertos.
A1-2 5-Concert Selection
9/27 A1 Ravel Piano Concertos & Suite from Carmen 11/15 A1 Chen Leads The Four Seasons 2/21 A1 Mäkelä Conducts Ein Heldenleben 4/4 A1 Sibelius 2 & Tüür Accordion Concerto 5/16 A1 Poulenc Gloria & Saint-Saëns Organ Symphony
11/1 A2 Muti Conducts Strauss, Hindemith & Dvořák 9 12/6 A2 Till Eulenspiegel & Bullock Sings Aucoin 2/7 A2 Salonen Conducts La mer 4/18 A2 Evgeny Kissin with the CSO 6/13 A2 Gaffigan, Thibaudet & Bernstein
B1-2 5-Concert Selection
10/4 B1 Piccolo Play & Adagio for Strings 12/13 B1 Noseda Conducts Debussy & Prokofiev 4 1/31 B1 Salonen, Trifonov & Beethoven 3/28 B1 Muti Conducts Tchaikovsky & Rota 6/6 B1 Alsop Conducts Adams, Copland & Marsalis
10/18 B2 Mäkelä Conducts Symphonie fantastique 11/22 B2 Honeck Conducts Mozart Requiem 3/14 B2 Jakub Hrůša & Leif Ove Andsnes 5/9 B2 DiDonato Performs Neruda Songs 5/23 B2 Pekka Kuusisto: Time Shifting
C 10-Concert Package
Includes C1+C2
Experience the full sonic brilliance of the CSO with timeless and exhilarating symphonies, from Mozart to Brahms. A generous selection of concertos and an exuberant all-American program complete the package.
C1-2 5-Concert Selection
10/11 C1 Hadelich, Dvořák & Brahms 2 12/20 C1 Klaus Mäkelä & Yunchan Lim 3/21 C1 An Opera Night with Riccardo Muti 5/30 C1 Brahms, Strauss & Ravel La valse 6/20 C1 Lincoln Portrait & Ellington Harlem
10/25 C2 The Soldier’s Tale 11/8 C2 Muti & Sáinz-Villegas 2/14 C2 Jaap van Zweden, Himari & Mozart Jupiter 4/11 C2 Songs of Love and Farewell 5/2 C2 Canellakis, Tao & Tchaikovsky 5
Mikko Franck
Stefan Asbury
Sundays at 3:00
A 10-Concert Package Includes A1+A2
End the weekend on a high note with distinguished soloists, including pianists Alice Sara Ott playing Ravel and Conrad Tao in Bartók and violinist Himari in Bruch.
A1-2 5-Concert Selection
The newly created 5-concert SUN A1 & A2 packages offer the best seating availability.
9/28 A1 Ravel Piano Concertos & Suite from Carmen 12/7 A1 Till Eulenspiegel & Bullock Sings Aucoin 2/15 A1 Jaap van Zweden, Himari & Mozart Jupiter 5/3 A1 Canellakis, Tao & Tchaikovsky 5 6/21 A1 Lincoln Portrait & Ellington Harlem
11/23 A2 Honeck Conducts Mozart Requiem 2/1 A2 Salonen, Trifonov & Beethoven 3/29 A2 Muti Conducts Tchaikovsky & Rota 4/12 A2 Songs of Love and Farewell 5/31 A2 Brahms, Strauss & Ravel La valse
CSO at Wheaton
WHEATON A
The CSO returns to the western suburbs, offering a wonderfully varied portrait of the orchestra. Hear works by Mozart, Brahms, Dvořák, Tchaikovsky and more.
A young Viking defies tradition by befriending a ferocious dragon, and together, they must fight to save both their worlds. Experience this captivating film in HD, with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra performing the musical score live to picture!
John Williams’ charming and delightful score performed live to picture with members of the CSO. Hilarious and heart-warming, Home Alone is fun for the entire family!
Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey features stunning visuals and iconic music. André de Ridder leads the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Chorus in breathtaking live to picture performances of this iconic score.
Presented in association with Warner Bros. Discovery, Southbank Centre London and the British Film Institute.
Experience Star Wars: A New Hope like never before as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra performs John Williams’ iconic Oscar-winning score live with the full film on the big screen at Symphony Center.
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own package of three or more movie concerts — or pair your favorite films with a performance featuring legendary composer Joe Hisaishi, April 23-26, or the music of John Williams, June 23. Select your dates and seats to save 15%.
FRIDAYS AT 7:30 A 3-Concert
Elevate movie night with great films on the big screen and the full scores played live by the CSO. Sci-fi classics and family adventures await.
CSO for Kids
Spark a love for classical music through captivating concerts designed for ages 3-12. These engaging performances blend theater, storytelling and multimedia to create unforgettable family experiences.
Once Upon a Symphony®
Perfect for ages 3-5
Saturdays at 10:00 & 11:45
Buntrock Hall at Symphony Center
Produced and presented in partnership with Chicago Children’s Theatre
The Ugly Duckling
DEC 6 | JAN 10 | JAN 31
After enduring hardship, a lonely duckling blossoms into a stunning swan, realizing true beauty comes from within in this musical tale of self-discovery, acceptance and inner strength.
Limited Seating Availability!
Guarantee your tickets before they sell out.
The Bremen Town Musicians
MAR 7 | APR 11 | APR 18
Four farm animals, no longer needed at home, set off for Bremen to become musicians. Along the way, they find a house full of robbers. Teaming up, they outsmart the thieves and discover newfound courage.
Once Upon a Symphony Package
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Enhance your Once Upon a Symphony experience with Mother Goose & the Cabinet of Wonder.
Subscribers save 15% on additional concerts — secure your seats today for an unforgettable musical journey.
Family Matinees
Perfect for ages 5-12
Saturdays at 11:00 FAMILY AM & 12:45 FAMILY PM Orchestra Hall at Symphony Center
Which Instrument Should I Play?
NOV 15
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Andrew Grams conductor
Justin Roberts guest artist
Five-time Grammy-nominated children’smusic songwriter Justin Roberts joins conductor Andrew Grams and the CSO for an engaging investigation of the musical instruments in an orchestra.
Classical Elements
MAR 21
Members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Mei-Ann Chen conductor
Conductor Mei-Ann Chen and members of the CSO embark on a musical exploration of air, fire and water — the elements that create balance on planet Earth.
Mother Goose & the Cabinet of Wonder
Recommended for ages 3-12
MAY 9
Members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra
James Bagwell conductor
Natalie Merchant vocals
Join legendary singer-songwriter Natalie Merchant, members of the CSO and special guests for a joyful singalong with Mother Goose. Featuring Merchant’s nursery rhyme adaptations, the program highlights a vibrant array of instrumental groups and musical styles.
Mother Goose & the Cabinet of Wonder is a co-production of Natalie Merchant, Chicago Children’s Theatre and the Negaunee Music Institute at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
Natalie Merchant
Family Matinees Curated Package
FAMILY AM | PM 3-Concert
Package
Introduce the kids in your life to the world of classical music with three casual, interactive concerts full of your favorite works. Subscribe and save up to 33%
A Musical Journey
In June 2026, Symphony Center marks America’s 250th anniversary with performances that honor the nation’s rich and evolving cultural landscape. From concerts with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra to appearances by guest artists and jazz ensembles, these curated programs reflect the country’s resilience, creativity and musical traditions. Highlights include Wynton Marsalis’ Liberty Symphony with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, blending jazz, blues and classical influences, and Conrad Tao’s recital of works by American composers. Works by Copland, Gershwin and Ives explore the nation’s enduring spirit, alongside a celebration of the lasting impact of John Williams — one of America’s most iconic composers — whose unforgettable film scores have captured imaginations worldwide. Visit cso.org/america250 for more details.
Conrad Tao Marin Alsop
James Gaffigan
JAZZ
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis
JUNE 2
CSO Alsop Conducts Adams, Copland & Marsalis
JUNE 4-6
PIANO
Conrad Tao
JUNE 7
CSO Gaffigan, Thibaudet & Bernstein
JUNE 11-13
CSO
Lincoln Portrait & Ellington Harlem
JUNE 18-21
CSO A Musical Tribute to John Williams & Steven Spielberg
JUNE 23
MOVIES Star Wars: A New Hope in Concert
JUNE 25-27
Wynton Marsalis
Joshua Weilerstein
Symphony Center Presents Piano
Eight renowned pianists bring keyboard masterpieces to Orchestra Hall. From rising stars to celebrated masters, hear diverse interpretive styles through commanding sonatas, charming miniatures and groundbreaking new works. Perfect for newcomers and piano enthusiasts alike.
OCTOBER
Yunchan Lim
19 SUN SCP PIANO A | A1 3:00
WEBERN Variations, Op. 27
BACH Goldberg Variations, BWV 988
Yunchan Lim, who at 18 became the youngest-ever winner of the Van Cliburn Competition, climbs the summit of Baroque keyboard music in Bach’s Goldberg Variations.
NOVEMBER
Beatrice Rana
2 SUN SCP PIANO A | A2 3:00
PROKOFIEV Selections from Romeo and Juliet
DEBUSSY Etudes, Book II
TCHAIKOVSKY (arr. Pletnev) Concert Suite from The Nutcracker
PROKOFIEV Sonata No. 6 in A Major Beatrice Rana brings stunning depth to Debussy’s kaleidoscopic Etudes, Book II, while Prokofiev’s Sonata No. 6 surges with bold, dramatic power. Tchaikovsky and Prokofiev add festive sparkle and vivid storytelling to this dynamic program.
Beatrice Rana
Hayato Sumino
Hayato Sumino
16 SUN SCP PIANO A | A1 3:00
CHOPIN Scherzo No. 1 in B Minor
CHOPIN Nocturne in C Minor, Op. 48, No. 1
SUMINO Nocturne No. 1 (Pre Rain)
SUMINO Nocturne No. 2 (After Dawn)
SUMINO Nocturne No. 3
(Once in a Blue Moon)
BACH Partita No. 2 in C Minor
SUMINO New Birth (after Chopin)
SUMINO Recollection (after Chopin)
BACH Prelude and Fugue in C Major from The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book II
GULDA Prelude and Fugue RAVEL (arr. Sumino) Boléro
Known on YouTube as “Cateen,” Hayato Sumino has earned millions of views for his captivating performances. In his Symphony Center debut, the Chopin Competition semi-finalist performs works by Chopin, Bach and Ravel, alongside his own imaginative compositions.
JANUARY
Kirill Gerstein
25 SUN SCP PIANO A | A2 3:00
LISZT Three Petrarch Sonnets
LISZT Après une lecture du Dante (Fantasia quasi Sonata) from Années de pèlerinage, Deuxième année, Italie
BRAHMS Scherzo in E-flat Minor, Op. 4
BRAHMS Sonata No. 3 in F Minor, Op. 5
Join Kirill Gerstein for a program exploring Liszt and Brahms, two Romantic-era luminaries. Liszt’s fantastical Dante Sonata and Brahms’ majestic Sonata No. 3 crown the two halves.
FEBRUARY
Marc-André Hamelin
22 SUN SCP PIANO A | A2 3:00
IVES Sonata No. 2 (Concord, Mass., 1840–60)
SCHUMANN Fantasiestücke, Op. 12
SCRIABIN Sonata No. 3 in F-Sharp Minor, Op. 23
Marc-André Hamelin highlights Ives’ visionary Concord Sonata, a tribute to Transcendentalist thinkers, alongside Scriabin’s turbulent Third Sonata. Schumann’s mercurial Fantasy Pieces span humor, joy and brooding intensity.
MARCH
Benjamin Grosvenor
8 SUN SCP PIANO A | A1 3:00
BEETHOVEN Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp Minor, Op. 27, No. 2 (Moonlight)
SCHUMANN Fantasy in C Major, Op. 17
SCRIABIN Sonata No. 2 in G-sharp Minor, Op. 19
RAVEL Gaspard de la nuit
Experience Benjamin Grosvenor’s performance of Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata, a cornerstone of the piano repertoire, alongside works by Schumann, Scriabin and Ravel.
Benjamin Grosvenor
Kirill Gerstein
MAY
Evgeny Kissin
17 SUN SCP PIANO A | A2 3:00
BEETHOVEN Sonata No. 7 in D Major, Op. 10, No. 3
CHOPIN Mazurka in E Minor, Op. 41, No. 2
CHOPIN Mazurka in A-flat Major, Op. 41, No. 4
CHOPIN Mazurka in C Minor, Op. 56, No. 3
CHOPIN Mazurka in B Major, Op. 63, No. 1
CHOPIN Mazurka in A Minor, Op. posth. (Emile Gaillard)
SCHUMANN Kreisleriana, Op. 16
LISZT Hungarian Rhapsody No. 12 in C-sharp Minor
Evgeny Kissin presents a spectacular, eras-spanning recital featuring Beethoven’s revolutionary Piano Sonata No. 7, a set of Chopin mazurkas and works by Schumann and Liszt.
After his acclaimed 2023 CSO subscription debut, Conrad Tao returns with a selection of Gershwin song arrangements interwoven with works by Debussy, Ravel, Rachmaninov and Schumann.
SCP Piano Curated Packages
A 8-Concert Package Includes A1+A2
This eight-concert package highlights some of the most uniquely gifted pianists of our time exploring the depths of the keyboard repertoire.
A1-2 4-Concert Selection
10/19 A1 Yunchan Lim 11/16 A1 Hayato Sumino 3/8 A1 Benjamin Grosvenor 6/7 A1 Conrad Tao
Joyce DiDonato steps into the role of CSO Artist-in-Residence for the 2025/26 Season. Acclaimed for her interpretations of Baroque, bel canto and contemporary operatic roles, as well as her captivating recital and concert performances, DiDonato infuses this season with unmatched expressive power and artistry.
Beyond her stunning performances, DiDonato will participate in additional community and educational events, creating unique opportunities to engage with her extraordinary talent throughout the season.
Save 15% when you create your own subscription of all three programs featuring Joyce DiDonato.
Joyce DiDonato & the CSO
SEP 20
Joyce DiDonato in Emily – No Prisoner Be FEB 10
DiDonato Performs Neruda Songs
MAY 7-9
Symphony Center Presents Chamber Music
Connect with the intimate world of chamber music. From trio performances commanding Orchestra Hall’s stage to a chamber orchestra led by a world-class pianist, witness the full spectrum of this remarkable art form. Experience the fusion of poetry and song in an innovative new collaboration.
FEBRUARY
Joyce DiDonato in Emily – No Prisoner Be
10 TUE SCP CHAMBER A 7:30
Joyce DiDonato mezzo-soprano
Time For Three
Ranaan Meyer bass and vocals
Nick Kendall violin and vocals
Charles Yang violin and vocals
PUTS Emily – No Prisoner Be
Joyce DiDonato and string trio Time For Three unite in an extraordinary collaboration inspired by the poetry of Emily Dickinson, with music by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Kevin Puts (The Hours, Silent Night).
MARCH
Zukerman Trio
7 SAT SCP CHAMBER A 7:30
Pinchas Zukerman violin
Amanda Forsyth cello
Michael Stephen Brown piano
HIGDON Pale Yellow from Piano Trio
MENDELSSOHN Piano Trio No. 1
DVOŘÁK Dumky for Piano, Violin and Cello, Op. 90
“The matchless musicianship and charisma” of legendary violinist Pinchas Zukerman, acclaimed cellist Amanda Forsyth and celebrated pianist Michael Stephen Brown creates “a trio made in heaven” (Limelight), anchored by Dvořák’s vibrant and introspective Dumky Trio.
APRIL
Yuja Wang & the Mahler Chamber Orchestra
29 WED SCP CHAMBER A 7:30
Yuja Wang piano and conductor Mahler Chamber Orchestra
CHOPIN Piano Concerto No. 2
PROKOFIEV Symphony No. 1 (Classical)
PROKOFIEV Piano Concerto No. 2
Pianist Yuja Wang leads the Mahler Chamber Orchestra in a dazzling program featuring Chopin’s radiant Piano Concerto No. 2, Prokofiev’s bold Second Piano Concerto and his vibrant Classical Symphony, blending virtuosic brilliance with her dynamic artistry.
Pinchas Zukerman
Amanda Forsyth
Michael Stephen Brown
EVENINGS AT 7:30 & MATINEES AT 3:00
Experience distinctive chamber music programs, each performed by some of the repertoire’s leading ambassadors and spanning works inspired by the poetry of Emily Dickinson to jazz-inspired classics.
2/10 Joyce DiDonato in Emily – No Prisoner Be 3/7 Zukerman Trio 4/29 Yuja Wang & the Mahler Chamber Orchestra
Due to a cancellation, the Chamber A package is now three concerts rather than four.
Symphony Center Presents Jazz
Revel in electrifying performances that honor jazz’s rich legacy while pushing its boundaries forward. From genredefying collaborations to soul-stirring solos, each concert showcases masterful musicians, amplifying the voices that shape the future of this incredible art form.
OCTOBER
Christian McBride & Brad Mehldau
10 FRI SCP JAZZ A | A2 8:00
Christian McBride and Brad Mehldau
showcase their extraordinary musical rapport and captivating interplay in a rare duo performance.
Herbie Hancock
26 SUN SCP JAZZ A | A2 7:00
Herbie Hancock, “one of music’s most catalytic forces” (Chicago Tribune), seamlessly navigates his vast catalog with playfully electric energy and charm.
Herbie Hancock
NOVEMBER
Joshua Redman Quartet with special guest Gabrielle Cavassa
7 FRI SCP JAZZ A | A1 8:00
Joshua Redman and his quartet play music from the group’s upcoming Blue Note album, with Gabrielle Cavassa joining for selections from his last record, where are we
FEBRUARY
José James presents the 50th anniversary of Marvin Gaye’s I Want You with special guest Lizz Wright
6 FRI SCP JAZZ A | A2 8:00
José James and special guest Lizz Wright pay tribute to Marvin Gaye’s I Want You, reimagining the music of this provocative album in celebration of its 50th anniversary.
Somi
MARCH
Nubya Garcia / Somi
13 FRI SCP JAZZ A | A2 8:00
Tenor saxophonist Nubya Garcia and vocalist Somi make their Symphony Center debuts with graceful, powerful and genreblending music.
Curated by Kate Dumbleton, Executive and Artistic Director, Hyde Park Jazz Festival
Miles Davis at 100: Gonzalo Rubalcaba / Unlimited Miles
27 FRI SCP JAZZ A | A1 8:00 Gonzalo Rubalcaba piano
Unlimited Miles
John Beasley piano
Sean Jones trumpet
Mark Turner saxophone
Kurt Rosenwinkel guitar
Ben Williams bass
Terreon Gully drums
Pay tribute to Miles Davis’ centennial and his enduring legacy with a double bill concert featuring virtuosic pianism and bold new arrangements.
Joshua Redman
José James
MAY
Mike Reed’s Chicago Inspirations
1 FRI SCP JAZZ A | A1 8:00
The Magic Box: Music inspired by Chicago bassist Fre d Hopkins
Mike Reed drums and guest curator
Nicole Mitchell flute
Tomeka Reid cello
Greg Ward alto saxophone
Joshua Abrams bass
Jason Adasiewicz vibraphone
The City Was Yellow: Chicago Jazz & Improvised Music 1980-2010
Students from the Jazz Institute of Chicago Jazz Links Program
Geof Bradfield saxophone and musical director
Drummer-composer Mike Reed and a powerhouse ensemble of fellow Chicago improvisers explore the legacy of Chicago avant-garde jazz bassist Fred Hopkins.
JUNE
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis
2 TUE SCP JAZZ A | A1 8:00
The legendary Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and its trailblazing leader Wynton Marsalis return to Symphony Center, their home in Chicago.
SCP Jazz Curated Packages
Subscribe and save up to 30%
EVENINGS AT 7:00 & 8:00
A 8-Concert Package
Includes A1+A2
This Symphony Center Presents Jazz package showcases legends and rising stars in unforgettable performances and collaborations that resonate long after the final note.
A1-2 4-Concert Selection
11/7
A1 Joshua Redman Quartet with special guest Gabrielle Cavassa 3/27 A1 Miles Davis at 100: Gonzalo Rubalcaba / Unlimited Miles
5/1
A1 Mike Reed’s Chicago Inspirations 6/2
A1 Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis
A2 José James with Lizz Wright: Marvin Gaye’s I Want You 3/13 A2 Nubya Garcia / Somi
Subscription orders are subject to a $25 fee.
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra
Music in the air. City lights overhead. All that’s missing is you.
There’s nothing like a summer concert at Millennium Park — grab a blanket and some snacks, gather your friends and make it an evening to remember. This concert is free and open to all.
Sarabande Africaine:
Angélique Kidjo & Yo-Yo Ma
Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park 201 E. Randolph St., Chicago TUE AUG 26, 2025 | 6:30
Discover what happens when two superstars meet across cultures with open hearts and boundless curiosity.
World-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma and five-time Grammy Award winner Angélique Kidjo come together for Sarabande Africaine. Join them for a transcendent journey where the classical elegance of the cello meets the vibrant rhythms of West African song, exploring connections that unite cultures and generations.
For those who wish to enhance their evening, reservations for VIP experiences for supporters of this event are available at cso.org starting July 15. The VIP experience includes a number of reserved seats in the pavilion seating bowl and is the only way to guarantee admission to this special concert.
Stay connected! Be the first to know about concerts, special offers and more.
Visit cso.org/stayconnected to sign up for emails, or update your contact information and preferences in your account section on cso.org.
Featured Concerts & Events
Add any concert to your subscription and save 15%
SEPTEMBER
Joyce DiDonato & the CSO
20 SAT 6:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Nikolaj Szeps-Znaider conductor
Joyce DiDonato mezzo-soprano
WEBER Overture to Oberon MENDELSSOHN Selections from A Midsummer Night’s Dream
R. STRAUSS Wiegenlied
R. STRAUSS Morgen!
R. STRAUSS Zueignung
BIZET Habanera from Carmen WAGNER Overture to Tannhäuser
Kick off the new season in style! Joyce DiDonato joins Nikolaj Szeps-Znaider and the CSO for a celebratory program of vocal selections and Mendelssohn’s enchanting A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Enhance your concert experience with a Symphony Ball gala package, including a private preconcert reception for patrons and sponsors in Buntrock Hall and postconcert dinner and dancing at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago. For more information, please email symphonyball@cso.org or call 312-294-3185.
This benefit event raises funds to support the multifaceted work of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association — not only its industry-leading artistic programs but also its educational and community engagement initiatives that nurture tens of thousands of people in Chicago and around the world annually.
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Aida Cuevas:
50 Years Singing to México
26 FRI 8:00
Aida Cuevas vocals
Aida Cuevas, the unrivaled queen of ranchera music, celebrates her 50th anniversary with her signature elegance, artistry and heartfelt authenticity.
OCTOBER
TwoSet Violin
14 TUE 7:30
Brett Yang violin
Eddy Chen violin
Sophie Druml piano
TwoSet Violin brings its unique blend of humor and artistry to Symphony Center. As The Strad notes, “their love of classical music imbues every moment” and has sparked joy in millions worldwide.
An Evening with Chris Thile
24 FRI 8:00
Chris Thile mandolin and vocals
Grammy Award-winning mandolinist Chris Thile, praised as “an all-round musician” (The Guardian), brings his genrespanning artistry to Symphony Center. This wide-ranging program includes Thile’s solo recordings of Bach’s Sonatas and Partitas, the second volume of which is due out this fall.
NOVEMBER
Vienna Boys Choir: Christmas in Vienna
Christmas in Vienna showcases the Vienna Boys Choir in Austrian folk songs, classical masterpieces, popular songs and holiday favorites.
DECEMBER
A Chanticleer Christmas
9 TUE 7:30
The Grammy Award-winning men’s chorus returns to Orchestra Hall with an evening of joyous carols, popular Christmas songs and its signature arrangements of festive spirituals.
Home Alone in Concert
Members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Nicholas Buc conductor
The Deerfield Singers
Anastasia Cameron Balmer chorus director
This true holiday favorite features John Williams’ charming and delightful score performed live to picture by members of the CSO. Macaulay Culkin stars as Kevin McCallister, an 8-year-old boy who is accidentally left behind when his family leaves for Christmas vacation and must defend his home against two bungling thieves. Hilarious and heart-warming, Home Alone is fun for the entire family.
Celebrated around the world for its gleaming sound and razor-sharp precision, the CSO brass section offers a virtuosic showcase of traditional favorites and symphonic masterworks.
Merry, Merry Chicago!
19 FRI 7:30
20 SAT 1:00
21 SUN 1:00 & 4:30
22 MON 7:30
23 TUE 1:00 & 4:30
Members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra
John Morris Russell conductor
Chicago Symphony Chorus
Donald Palumbo chorus director
Head to Orchestra Hall — decked in boughs of holly — for a program of popular carols, holiday favorites and festive surprises, presented in lavish, stirring arrangements.
Festive Favorites
JANUARY
Sinfónica de Minería
18 SUN 3:00
Carlos Miguel Prieto conductor
Pacho Flores trumpet
REVUELTAS Sensemayá
HAYDN Trumpet Concerto
D’RIVERA Concerto Venezolano
REVUELTAS La noche de los mayas
Mexico’s leading orchestra, the Sinfónica de Minería, makes its Symphony Center debut with Carlos Miguel Prieto conducting works by Revueltas, Haydn and Paquito D’Rivera.
FEBRUARY
Tango After Dark
28 SAT 7:30
Don’t miss the “splendid, sensual, imposing extravagance of Argentine tango” (DanceTabs) in Tango After Dark. Germán Cornejo leads a stellar cast of dancers, singers and musicians in an unforgettable evening featuring the music of Astor Piazzolla.
MARCH
PRIORITY ACCESS CONCERT*
Mäkelä Conducts
The Rite of Spring
5 THU 7:30
6 FRI 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Klaus Mäkelä conductor
MILHAUD Le Bœuf sur le toit
GERSHWIN An American in Paris
STRAVINSKY The Rite of Spring
Led by Klaus Mäkelä, the CSO presents one of the most electrifying and revolutionary works in the orchestral repertoire: Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring. Also featured are Milhaud’s playful Le Bœuf sur le toit, a kaleidoscope of rhythmic wit and whimsy, and Gershwin’s An American in Paris, a jazz-infused portrait of the City of Light.
*See page 4 for more information.
Ravi Shankar Ensemble
22 SUN 3:00
Shubhendra Rao sitar
Ayush Mohan sarod
Ravichandra Kulur flute
Padma Shankar violin and vocals
Anubrata Chatterjee tabla
BC Manjunath mridangam
In the group’s debut tour, the Ravi Shankar Ensemble pays tribute to Ravi Shankar’s legacy with a presentation of his masterful compositions alongside rare archival visuals.
PRIORITY ACCESS CONCERT*
Yo-Yo Ma in Recital
28 SAT 1:30
Yo-Yo Ma cello
ZHAO Summer in the High Grassland
BACH Suite No. 1 in G Major, BWV 1007
SAYGUN Allegretto from Partita for Solo Cello
BACH Suite No. 5 in C Minor, BWV 1011
CRUMB Sonata for Solo Cello
BACH Suite No. 6 in D Major, BWV 1012
Yo-Yo Ma returns to Symphony Center for an intimate solo recital. Anchored by three of Bach’s iconic cello suites and complemented by contemporary works, the program offers a deeply personal exploration of the cello’s expressive power.
APRIL
PRIORITY ACCESS CONCERT *
Hisaishi Conducts Hisaishi
23 THU 7:30
24 FRI 7:30
25 SAT 7:30
26 SUN 3:00
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Joe Hisaishi conductor and piano
Dubbed “the John Williams of Japan” by Pitchfork, Joe Hisaishi is one of the most celebrated composers of our time. Hisaishi returns to conduct the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in his symphonic works and iconic film scores.
MAY
Hilary Hahn in Recital
24 SUN 3:00
Hilary Hahn violin
Tom Poster piano
RAVEL Violin Sonata
LAM Solitude d’automne
BOULANGER Nocturne from Deux morceaux
RAVEL Pièce en forme de habanera
DEBUSSY Violin Sonata
TIXIER New Work
FAURÉ Violin Sonata No. 1
Having embraced Chicago and its musical life during her three years as CSO Artist-inResidence, Hilary Hahn returns to Symphony Center with pianist Tom Poster. Together, they explore three cornerstone sonatas by Debussy, Ravel and Fauré — each offering a distinct perspective on the lush textures and intimate lyricism of a century of French music.
JUNE
PRIORITY ACCESS CONCERT*
A Musical Tribute to John Williams & Steven Spielberg
23 TUE 7:30
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Steven Reineke conductor
Celebrate the legendary collaboration between composer John Williams and filmmaker Steven Spielberg as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra brings to life some of cinema’s most iconic music. From Jurassic Park and Jaws to Indiana Jones and E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, the scores born of this 50-year creative partnership have captured imaginations around the world.
*See page 4 for more information.
Hilary Hahn
Get Involved with the CSO
Discover vibrant communities of music lovers and build lasting connections through special events and initiatives. Celebrate the joy of music, share your passion, meet fellow enthusiasts and be part of an engaging network that brings people together. Support the music you love at cso.org/getinvolved.
Join your peers today:
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subscription seats may be relocated if a concert involves a screen or chorus. Box Level CYO and add-on savings is 5% off standard prices at time of purchase.
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Support Your Orchestra
Make an Impact
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association is committed to enriching, inspiring and transforming lives through music, community engagement and education — locally, nationally and internationally. Donors have long supported the CSOA, and gifts of all levels are crucial in maintaining the high-quality work we do both in and outside Symphony Center.
The concerts and activities of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra are at the core of our work, but gifts also support the ability to host guest artists and ensembles of all kinds through the Symphony Center Presents series.
Thanks to donor support, the Negaunee Music Institute at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra continues to be a leader in music education programming, with each season furthering its mission to educate audiences, train young musicians and serve diverse communities, across Chicago and around the world. NMI programs include the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, CSO for Kids, the Percussion Scholarship Program and many more. Your gift to the CSOA makes an impact on the work we do. Being a part of our community of donors is an incredibly meaningful way to connect with the music and programs you love.
Thank you for your support of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association.
Our Sponsors
Anonymous
Randy L. and Melvin R. Berlin
Family Fund for the Canon
Kenneth C. Griffin
Margot and Josef Lakonishok
Ling Z. and Michael C. Markovitz
Sargent Family Foundation
Schmidt Family Fund
Major artistic support for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s 2025/26 season is generously provided by Zell Family Foundation and The Negaunee Foundation
The Artist-in-Residence at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra is made possible through a generous gift from James and Brenda Grusecki
Generous support for CSO concerts, guest artists and guest conductors has been provided by the Juli Plant Grainger Fund for Artistic Excellence and the Grainger Fund for Excellence
Generous support for the Chicago Symphony Chorus has been provided by The Grainger Foundation
Your Symphony Center
Dining at the Thomas Club
Located on the ninth floor of Symphony Center, The Richard & Helen Thomas Club offers a sophisticated dining experience with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. Open on select concert dates, the club invites ticket holders to enjoy a meal in an elegant, tranquil setting before performances.
The seasonally inspired prix fixe menu showcases a blend of classic and contemporary cuisine, crafted with fresh ingredients. Guests can savor thoughtfully prepared appetizers, expertly executed entrées and decadent desserts, all complemented by a curated wine and cocktail selection.
View menus, make a reservation and learn more at cso.org/dining.
Shop at the Symphony Store
Located at the Adams Street entrance of Symphony Center, the Symphony Store offers an inspiring selection of gifts for music lovers of all ages. Explore a curated collection of classical music merchandise from around the world, kid-friendly books and toys, stylish apparel and the world’s most comprehensive inventory of Chicago Symphony Orchestra recordings.
Every purchase supports the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association, helping fund concerts, education programs and performances by renowned artists from jazz, world and folk traditions.
Subscriber & Donor Rewards
Subscribers and donors to the CSOA enjoy 15% savings on eligible purchases year-round.
Shop in Store or Online
Open for all CSO and select Symphony Center Presents performances. Can’t visit in person? Shop online at symphonystore.com.
