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2026/27 CSO for Kids Brochure

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CSO for Kids

26 27 Music for every moment.

Three-concert packages start at just $15 for kids and $30 for adults. Whether you’re prioritizing flexibility, variety, savings or securing your favorite seats, your perfect subscription package awaits.

Once Upon a Symphony®

Two concerts — save 10%

Members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Chicago Children’s Theatre bring beloved children’s tales to life with music and storytelling. These vibrant performances use sets and costumes to introduce children ages 3-5 to the magical world of classical music.

Family Matinees

11:00 FAMILY AM & 12:45 FAMILY PM

Three concerts — save up to 33%

Experience a world-class orchestra in a kidfriendly concert! These engaging, 45-minute programs designed for kids ages 5-12 are led by today’s most renowned conductors and compelling guest artists and are paired with unforgettable hands-on preconcert activities.

Create Your Own Subscription

Three or more concerts — save 15%

Build a subscription that works for your family! Mix and match concerts from every genre — family-friendly, orchestral, movies and more — to create a package that fits everyone’s interests.

Subscription orders are subject to a $25 fee.

Exclusive subscriber benefits include:

• Flexible ticket exchange options

• Reduced rates at nearby parking garages

• 15% savings on additional concert tickets throughout the entire season

Visit cso.org/rewards to learn more.

Buntrock Hall at Symphony Center

Produced and presented in partnership with Chicago Children’s Theatre

Stone Soup

DEC 5 | JAN 30 | FEB 13

A hungry traveler arrives at a village where the townspeople claim they have no food to share. But the traveler pulls out a large pot, fills it with water, adds stones and says, “We have everything we need to make stone soup.” Before long, the villagers contribute to the broth and enjoy the most delicious soup they have ever tasted. In this musical adaptation of the classic tale, learn how the act of sharing fosters joy and celebration.

The Elves and the Shoemaker

MAR 20 | APR 10 | APR 24

A poor shoemaker and his wife receive magical help from elves who secretly finish their shoes during the night. After the shoes are snapped up by customers, the couple are left to wonder: Who could have done such marvelous work? And will the magic continue? The fable is about the joy that comes from giving — and receiving — kindness and generosity.

Family Matinees

Perfect for ages 5-12

Saturdays at 11:00 FAMILY AM & 12:45 FAMILY PM Orchestra Hall at Symphony Center

Symphonic Superheroes

NOV 21

Members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Alastair Willis conductor

Move over Superman, Wonder Woman and other caped crusaders! In this captivating program, you’ll discover the superhero qualities of a symphony orchestra. Alastair Willis and members of the CSO demonstrate how musicians use courage and tenacity to perform music — whether it’s taking solos or working together as an ensemble.

The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra

MAR 6

Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser conductor

The Second City guest artists

Benjamin Britten’s Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra is the ultimate introduction to the instruments of an orchestra. Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser leads the CSO in this iconic and delightful piece, joined by special guest artists from The Second City adding their signature wit and spontaneity to this imaginative musical adventure. Using a single melody to introduce each instrument family, Britten’s score spotlights the unique character of every instrument. Once the theme travels through the ensemble, one section at a time, the orchestra reunites for a glorious, rip-roaring conclusion.

The Second City Alastair Willis
Daniel BartholomewPoyser

Einstein’s Imagination

MAY 15

Members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Tania Miller conductor

Discover the imaginative world of Albert Einstein and find out how the principles of physics determine a musical performance. Conductor Tania Miller leads members of the CSO in this vibrant, thought-provoking program.

Orchestra Explorers

Round out your concert experience with free, hands-on preconcert activities available at each Family Matinee throughout the season. Try out an instrument, conduct a live ensemble, make a musical craft — and more!

Tania Miller

Create Your Own Subscription

by mixing and matching any three or more concerts from the 2026/27 Season! Learn more at cso.org/cyo

CSO for Kids

CSO at the Movies

How to Train Your Dragon 2 in Concert NOV 27-29

© 2014 DreamWorks Animation LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Explore More Resources

CSO Classical Your best season yet!

Mäkelä Conducts Beethoven 9 JUNE 17-20

Learn more about all the ways we strive to make your visit to Symphony Center welcoming and accessible.

Plan Your Day Downtown

Make an afternoon of your visit to Symphony Center!

Check out an easy-to-use guide for tips about transportation, nearby attractions and deals on the perfect lunch spots at cso.org/planyourdaydowntown.

Accessibility

Learn about our accessibility resources like assisted listening devices; large print, braille and digital programs, and ASL services at cso.org/accessibility.

Social Narratives

Visit Symphony Center with confidence! CSO for Kids social narratives use clear, simple language paired with photos and images to help prepare readers for new experiences. Read more at cso.org/socialnarratives.

Turn moments into a lifelong love of

music

These engaging concerts designed for kids ages 3-12 feature symphonic favorites and interactive elements that make classical music approachable and fun! Spark curiosity and activate the imagination of your whole family with a cultural outing to Symphony Center.

Planning ahead has never been easier! Here’s how to subscribe:

Visit cso.org/subscribe for a list of packages, prices, frequently asked questions and the simplest way to subscribe.

Contact our friendly and knowledgeable Patron Services team for personalized assistance with subscription, seating and concert recommendations. By phone and text message 312-294-3000

By webchat and 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.

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2026/27 CSO for Kids Brochure by Chicago Symphony - Issuu