CSO for Kids
Experience the magic of live music
Your seats await 25 26 SEASON
Let music astound
These fun and interactive concerts are perfectly tailored to introduce kids ages 3-12 to classical music. Featuring approachable symphonic works curated to delight, each CSO for Kids concert is a joy-filled cultural experience for families to share and grow their love of music.
After you decide which subscription you would like, visit cso.org/subscribe to place your order online.
Contact our friendly and knowledgeable Patron Services team for personalized assistance with subscription, seating and concert recommendations.
By Phone: 312-294-3000
Via Webchat & Email: cso.org/contact
In Person: Symphony Center Box Office 220 S. Michigan Ave.
Have us call you: Visit cso.org/callme to schedule a phone appointment with a Patron Services representative to discuss your subscription options.
One of the best family deals in Chicago!
Subscription packages start at $15 for kids and $30 for adults .
Create Your Own Subscription
THREE OR MORE CONCERTS — SAVE 15%
Build your family’s perfect musical experience by creating your own subscription! Enjoy ultimate flexibility by mixing and matching concerts at Symphony Center that fit everyone’s interests — whether it’s CSO for Kids concerts, cherished movies with the scores performed live or a night of classical masterpieces.
Once Upon a Symphony
TWO CONCERTS — SAVE 10%
Treasured stories meet vibrant performances by members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. In partnership with Chicago Children’s Theatre, these fun and engaging programs use sets and costumes to introduce preschoolers to the world of classical music.
Save 15% on Mother Goose & the Cabinet of Wonder when you add it to your subscription.
Family Matinees
THREE CONCERTS — SAVE UP TO 33%
Delight in the sights and sounds of a world-class orchestra. Led by classical music’s most compelling guest conductors and storytellers, these fun and engaging 45-minute guided concert experiences create unforgettable memories for the whole family.
All subscribers have access to additional rewards including 15% savings on additional concert tickets throughout the entire season, flexible ticket exchange options and exclusive rates at nearby parking garages. Visit cso.org/rewards to learn more.
Subscription orders are subject to a $25 fee.
Once Upon a Symphony®
Perfect for ages 3-5
Saturdays at 10:00 & 11:45 AM
Buntrock Hall at Symphony Center
The Ugly Duckling
DEC 6 | JAN 10 | JAN 31
A young duckling is teased for being different. After facing loneliness and other struggles, the duckling matures into a stunning swan, realizing true beauty comes from within. Explore this musical portrait of self-discovery, acceptance and inner strength.
Produced and presented in partnership with Chicago Children’s
The Bremen Town
Musicians
MAR 7 | APR 11 | APR 18
When four farm animals are no longer needed, they set off for the town of Bremen, dreaming of becoming musicians. On the way, they discover a house full of robbers! The friends quickly join forces to scare away the thieves, uncovering hidden courage they never knew they had.
Theatre
Family Matinees
Perfect for kids ages 5-12
Saturdays at 11:00 AM & 12:45 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’s-music songwriter Justin Roberts joins conductor Andrew Grams and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra for an engaging investigation of the timbres and techniques that make each instrument both unique and a vital part of the 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. Journey through a musical depiction of the elements that help to create balance on planet Earth, and discover how we are all part of that harmony.
Mei-Ann Chen
Justin Roberts
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. This captivating program features traditional nursery rhymes adapted by Merchant and orchestrated for an array of instrumental groups. Be a part of this magical musical world of learning and imagination.
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.
Complete your family’s experience at Symphony Center
Orchestra Explorer activities
Family Matinee attendees can participate in a variety of free activities throughout the Symphony Center Rotunda. Children’s activities at these concerts offer a diverse range of experiences, including playing musical instruments at an instrument petting zoo, craft projects, scavenger hunts, chamber-ensemble performances and even taking part in “Mini-Maestros” conducting sessions.
Orchestra Explorer activities take place from 11:15 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., so you can enjoy them after your Family AM concerts or before your Family PM concerts.
Plan your day downtown
Make an afternoon of your visit to Symphony Center with an easy-to-use guide at cso.org/planyourdaydowntown, which includes parking information, dining deals and fun postconcert activity suggestions.
Accessibility
We strive to make coming to Symphony Center a magical experience for kids of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. Visit cso.org/accessibility or contact our Patron Services team at 312-294-3000 to learn more.
Natalie Merchant
Experience more at Symphony Center
Save 15% when you add these concerts to your subscription!
Level up your family movie night
How to Train Your Dragon in Concert
NOV 28-30
A young Viking named Hiccup defies tradition when he befriends a ferocious dragon he calls Toothless, and together, these unlikely heroes must fight against all odds to save both their worlds. Featuring John Powell’s Oscar-nominated score performed live to picture by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Dreamworks’ How to Train Your Dragon is a thrilling experience for all ages.
Create unforgettable holiday memories
Merry Chicago!
DEC 19-23
There’s nothing like hearing holiday music played by a worldrenowned orchestra and chorus. Head to Orchestra Hall — decked in boughs of holly — for a program of popular carols, holiday favorites and festive surprises. Members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Chicago Symphony Chorus perform lavish, stirring arrangements that are sure to inspire holiday cheer in all.
Treat
yourself to a night out with the CSO
Mäkelä Conducts The Rite of Spring
MARCH 5-6
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. Included in this showcase of 20th-century masterpieces are the playful, Brazilian-inspired rhythms of Milhaud’s Le Bœuf sur le toit and Gershwin’s An American in Paris, which brings the bustling streets of the French capital to life with jazzy flair.
*Subscribers receive first access to order tickets to this in-demand program.
