Classical Music in Chicago

Looking for something to do in Chicago? Check out our calendar of classical music events! From symphony performances to free concerts in the park, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

History of Classical Music in Chicago

The history of classical music in Chicago is a long and rich one. The city has been home to some of the world’s most renowned classical musicians and ensembles, and has played host to some of the genre’s most important events.

Chicago’s classical music scene began to take shape in the early 1800s, with the first professional orchestra being established in 1837. Since then, the city has been home to a number of world-renowned ensembles, including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the Lyric Opera of Chicago, and the Ravinia Festival.

Over the years, Chicago has also played host to a number of important classical music events, including the World’s Fair in 1893 and the Olympic Games in 1932. More recently, the city has become a regular stop on the international concert circuit, with many of the world’s top orchestras and soloists performing here on a regular basis.

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Founded in 1891, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra is one of the most highly regarded orchestras in the world. The Orchestra is known for its distinctive sound, imaginative programming and commitment to new works. Under the leadership of Music Director Riccardo Muti, the Orchestra continues to build on its extraordinary legacy while attracting a new generation of listeners.

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra has long been an integral part of the city’s cultural life, inspiring generations of music lovers with its performances at Symphony Center and on tour around the world. The Orchestra’s dedication to presenting a wide range of musical styles has earned it a place among America’s leading orchestras.

With more than 100 players, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra is one of the largest orchestras in the world. The Orchestra is led by Riccardo Muti, who was named Music Director in 2010. Mr. Muti brings his passion for music and commitment to artistic excellence to all aspects of his work with the Orchestra. He has led the Chicago Symphony Orchestra on five international tours and ten domestic tours, including two residencies at Carnegie Hall.

The Lyric Opera of Chicago

The Lyric Opera of Chicago is one of the leading opera companies in the United States. It was founded in 1954 by Carol Fox, Virgil Thomson, and Lawrence Kelly. The Lyric is housed in the Civic Opera House, which is the second-largest theater in Chicago and can seat more than 3,600 people.

The company’s mission is to present opera at the highest level of artistic excellence and to engage, educate, and extend its impact throughout the community. The Lyric Opera of Chicago presents a wide variety of operas each season, ranging from classic works by Verdi and Mozart to contemporary pieces by composers such as Philip Glass and Jake Heggie. In addition to fully-staged productions, the Lyric Opera of Chicago also offers concerts, educational programs, and special events throughout the year.

The Chicago Philharmonic

The Chicago Philharmonic is one of the premier orchestras in the country, renowned for its superb musicianship, innovative programming and commitment to education and community engagement.

Founded in 1954, the orchestra is comprised of volunteer musicians from the greater Chicago area who perform without compensation. The Chicago Philharmonic presents a full season of concerts each year at venues throughout the city, including Orchestra Hall at Symphony Center, Ravinia Festival and Millennium Park. In addition to its mainstage concert series, the orchestra also offers a wide variety of educational and community outreach programs.

Other Classical Music Venues in Chicago

In addition to Symphony Center, there are several other venues in Chicago that host classical music performances. These include:

-The Chicago Theatre: This theatre hosts a wide variety of live entertainment, including classical music performances.
-The Auditorium Theatre: The Auditorium Theatre is a historical landmark theatre in Chicago that presents a wide range of live entertainment, including classical music concerts.
– Cadillac Palace Theatre: The Cadillac Palace Theatre is another historical landmark theatre in Chicago that is known for its world-class live entertainment, including classical music concerts.