TOGETHER, AS ONE

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is an artistic force that enriches our lives. The collective experience of its musicians and their endless pursuit of excellence make it one of the most exciting ensembles in the world. The 133rd season celebrates what is possible when great talents unite.

The CSO is a singular voice in the cultural landscape. Its members take the Orchestra’s rich legacy to heart while exemplifying the creative possibilities of a modern ensemble eager to explore contemporary music and offer fresh interpretations of the classics.

As with past seasons, in 2023/24 there are plenty of opportunities to hear CSO members featured as soloists. Three perform the world premieres of contemporary concertos, including Principal Clarinet Stephen Williamson in Christopher Theofanidis’ Indigo Heaven, Principal Flute Stefán Ragnar Höskuldsson with Lowell Liebermann’s Flute Concerto No. 2 and Principal Percussion Cynthia Yeh in a new concerto by CSO Mead Composer-in-Residence Jessie Montgomery. Concertmaster Robert Chen leads and performs as soloist in an all-Bach program that also features Principal Oboe William Welter.

In the same way the musicians synergize to create the singular CSO, their music-making brings us TOGETHER, AS ONE .

Your footsteps quicken as you approach the doors to Symphony Center.

A warm, golden glow greets you in the lobby, as does the hum of fellow music lovers eagerly heading to their seats. A friendly usher welcomes you as you enter the hall. Beyond a sea of plush red cushions, you take in the stage covered in music stands and empty chairs. Soon, they will be filled with musicians who will create magical sounds that resonate up toward the bright lights you notice hanging from the acoustical canopy, then out into the hall. You take your seat, observe your surroundings and wait. The lights dim. Silence. A single clap turns into affectionate applause as you and your fellow audience members welcome the artists to the stage. Silence, again. And then at last, music — what you came for — a chance to surrender to an experience you can’t get anywhere else. Whether you are craving stimulation, community, inspiration, novelty or the comfort of music dear to you, you will find it here at this epicenter of musical brilliance and …